‘There’s Nothing More Beautiful Than a Heartbreak’

Karan Johar stole the limelight as a love guru, answering a volley of questions at the trailer launch of his latest film. From films, love, and Dharma’s choices, to censorship, health, weight loss, Gen Z’s take on romance, and being 53 and single, KJo tackled it all with ease.

Excerpts:

On choosing intense/sensitive themes

“Dharma Productions has always been associated with a certain kind of cinema, but time and again, we’ve tried to break that mold. We’ve approached serious subjects with sensitivity — Dhadak 2 was no different. We picked a theme that needed to be addressed.”

On dealing with the censor board

“Yes, it took time to reach theatres. But the censor board was understanding and compassionate. They understood what we were trying to say. Both sides were working to protect the film’s sensitivity. Things don’t happen overnight — there’s a process.”

On Gen Z and their idea of love

“My observation is very different from what boomers and even millennials perceive. Gen Z is surprisingly intense when it comes to love. Yes, dating apps are everywhere, and people are swiping —often out of boredom or curiosity — but when Gen Z falls in love, it’s deep. The way this generation experiences heartbreak — no other generation has. Just look at Spotify — the most-played tracks are heartbreak songs. There’s something beautiful about heartbreak. If it breaks you, it also makes you stronger. It’s therapeutic.”

On not finding love yet

“I’m single. I wish a love story would enter my life too, but alas, it hasn’t. I tell my incomplete love stories through cinema. I’m 53. I no longer have the energy to fight for love. What had to happen has happened. If love comes, I’ll welcome it with open arms. If not, well, like KBC, I still have four options!”

On trolls and comments about his weight loss

“Just yesterday I read online—‘What illness is Karan Johar hiding?’ Let me say, I’m absolutely fine. In fact, I’ve never felt better. One reason for the weight loss is that I’ve made lifestyle changes for wellness. I’m alive and intend to stay that way. And to all the trolls, let me say—I’m doing this to live a long, healthy life for my kids. And because I have many stories left to tell.”