Karan Johar, the prolific filmmaker, producer, and talk show host, has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. With a career spanning over two decades, he has woven intricate narratives, explored human emotions, and created a cinematic universe that resonates with audiences across generations. In a recent candid conversation, Karan delved into his creative process, the magic of intervals, and the evolution of gender politics in his films. 25 years of Karan Johar has been so inspiring.
The Interval: An Exotic Pause
Karan Johar unabashedly admits his love for the interval in Indian cinema. “I understand how frustrating it can be for writers and directors who don’t want to break the narrative,” he says, “but we’ve got to sell popcorn.” The interval, according to him, adds an exotic touch—leaving the audience on an emotional high or a tantalizing cliffhanger. His father, the late filmmaker Yash Johar, used to emphasize the importance of “buffer scenes” after the interval. These seemingly inconsequential moments allow characters to breathe, and they’ve become an integral part of Karan’s storytelling.
Gender Politics and Personal Evolution
Karan’s latest film, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, delves into the impact of upbringing and surroundings on our lives. It’s a departure from his earlier work, which sometimes featured flawed gender politics. Reflecting on his iconic film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, he acknowledges that he didn’t fully grasp the implications of certain scenes back then. “I thought yeh toh aashiqui hai, yeh toh pyaar hai,” he recalls, until director Zoya Akhtar set him straight. She pointed out that a man romantically pursuing a woman could easily cross into stalking territory. Karan’s perspective shifted, and he embraced the need for change.
Shabanaji’s Unwavering Trust
In Rocky Aur Rani, there’s a poignant moment when Shabana Azmi’s character meets Dharmendra, and they share the classic “Abhi na jao chhod kar” scene. Karan reveals that Shabanaji never doubted the gender politics of the film. Her unwavering trust in the narrative speaks volumes about the depth of their collaboration.
25 years of Karan Johar
As Karan Johar completes 25 years in the industry, he reflects on his journey. From the iconic Kuch Kuch Hota Hai to his upcoming projects like Liger and Brahmāstra: Part One, he continues to push boundaries. His talk show Koffee with Karan remains a cultural phenomenon, where celebrities bare their souls over steaming cups of coffee. Karan Johar isn’t just a filmmaker; he’s a curator of dreams, emotions, and conversations.
In conclusion, Karan Johar’s cinematic universe is a kaleidoscope of emotions, and his recent interview sheds light on the man behind the lens. As he navigates the ever-evolving landscape of Indian cinema, we eagerly await the next chapter in his storytelling saga.