Salman Khan’s co-star’s mother grew up poor, mother worked as a maid, today, his film was shortlisted for Oscar nomination

Vishal Jethwa is currently riding a wave of quiet triumph. Even though his film Homebound did not secure a spot among the Academy Award nominees, it has still emerged as a defining chapter in his professional life. The project has brought him meaningful appreciation across India and beyond its borders, reaffirming his place in the industry. For Vishal, this recognition has arrived at the perfect time, restoring confidence after a phase where his career momentum had slowed. Following his impactful debut in Mardaani 2, his path forward had not been as smooth or consistent as expected. With Homebound, however, he has firmly re-established his presence, marking a crucial milestone in his long and determined journey as an outsider navigating the closely guarded world of Hindi cinema.

In a recent interaction with Humans of Bombay, Vishal spoke candidly about his past and the realities that shaped his outlook on life and acting. He reflected on growing up in extreme financial hardship, describing his background as deeply underprivileged. Rather than viewing this as a setback, he considers it an unexpected advantage that allowed him to evolve with depth and empathy. Losing his father at a very young age changed his world entirely. He witnessed his mother shoulder every responsibility alone, raising the family while battling constant financial uncertainty. His childhood lacked stability and comfort, but those experiences, he believes, gave him emotional awareness and resilience that later translated into his performances.

Revisiting his early years, Vishal shared details about his education and surroundings. He studied in a Gujarati-medium school and spent his formative years in Malad before his family relocated to Mira Road after he completed sixth grade. His college education took place at Thakur College in Kandivali. During his teenage years, necessity pushed him toward work early in life. By ninth grade, he had begun earning as a background dancer on the television show Sa Re Ga Ma Pa L’il Champs. He recalled performing during an episode where Salman Khan, Ajay Devgn, and Asin appeared to promote London Dreams. Despite gaining exposure, he soon realized that dancing was not the path he wanted to pursue, prompting him to rethink his aspirations.


Speaking emotionally about his mother, Vishal made it clear that her sacrifices form the foundation of his journey. He feels deeply connected to her because of the relentless struggle she endured to keep the family afloat. Before acknowledging his own efforts, his thoughts instinctively go to everything she has done for him. Her own childhood was marked by hardship, forcing her to work as a domestic helper, cleaning homes to survive. Remembering her story puts his own challenges into perspective and leaves him feeling grateful rather than resentful.

Today, Vishal Jethwa is recognized for his performances in films such as Mardaani 2, Tiger 3, Salaam Venky, and now Homebound, each role reflecting the weight of the life he has lived and the perseverance that continues to drive him forward.