Karan Johar Initial work, debut and breakthrough (1995–2001):
Initial Work
Karan Johar started his journey in Bollywood as an assistant director to Aditya Chopra on the iconic film “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” (1995). This experience gave him valuable insights into filmmaking and the workings of the industry.
Debut
Karan Johar made his directorial debut with “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” (1998), a romantic drama that became an instant hit. The film starred Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and Rani Mukerji, and it was praised for its fresh storyline, memorable music, and strong performances. “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” won several awards, including the National Film Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment.
Breakthrough
The success of “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai” established Karan Johar as a talented director in Bollywood. Next, he was part of ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham…’ (2001), a family drama that boasted an ensemble cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Hrithik Roshan, and Kareena Kapoor. The film was a massive commercial success and further solidified his reputation as a leading filmmaker.
These early successes paved the way for Karan Johar’s illustrious career in the Indian film industry, where he continues to be a significant influence.
Karan Johar Widespread success (2006–10):
Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (2006)
Karan Johar directed this romantic drama, which explored the complexities of relationships and infidelity. The film featured an ensemble cast including Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Abhishek Bachchan, Preity Zinta, and Amitabh Bachchan. Despite its controversial theme, the film was a commercial success and received critical acclaim for its bold storytelling.
Dharma Productions
During this period, Karan Johar’s production house, Dharma Productions, produced several successful films. Notable among them were:
“Dostana” (2008): A comedy about two men pretending to be gay to secure an apartment, starring Abhishek Bachchan, John Abraham, and Priyanka Chopra.
“Wake Up Sid” (2009): A coming-of-age film starring Ranbir Kapoor and Konkona Sen Sharma, which was well-received for its fresh narrative and performances.
My Name Is Khan (2010)
One of the most significant films of this period was “My Name Is Khan,” directed by Karan Johar and starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol. The film tackled issues of Islamophobia and the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks. It was a critical and commercial success, earning praise for its sensitive portrayal of a complex subject and strong performances.
Television and Other Ventures
Karan Johar also made a mark on television during this time. He hosted the popular talk show “Koffee with Karan,” which became known for its candid celebrity interviews and entertaining format. The show added to his popularity and influence in the industry.
Karan Johar Continued success and experimental projects (2012–18):
Student of the Year (2012)
Karan Johar directed “Student of the Year,” a youthful, vibrant film that marked the debut of Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan, and Sidharth Malhotra. The film was a commercial success and introduced new talent to Bollywood.
Bombay Talkies (2013)
As part of the anthology film “Bombay Talkies,” Karan Johar directed one of the four segments. The film celebrated 100 years of Indian cinema and showcased diverse storytelling styles. Johar’s segment was praised for its contemporary take on relationships and sexuality.
Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (2013)
Produced by Dharma Productions, this romantic drama directed by Ayan Mukerji starred Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone. The movie achieved massive success, becoming one of the highest-earning Indian films in history.
2 States (2014)
Based on Chetan Bhagat’s novel, “2 States” was produced by Karan Johar and featured Alia Bhatt and Arjun Kapoor. The film was well-received for its portrayal of cultural differences and family dynamics.
Kapoor & Sons (2016)
Produced by Dharma Productions, “Kapoor & Sons” was a family drama directed by Shakun Batra. The film starred Sidharth Malhotra, Fawad Khan, and Alia Bhatt, and was praised for its realistic portrayal of family issues and strong performances.
Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016)
Karan Johar returned to directing with “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil,” a romantic drama starring Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The film explored themes of unrequited love and friendship and was a commercial success.
Raazi (2018)
Produced by Karan Johar, “Raazi” was a spy thriller directed by Meghna Gulzar and starred Alia Bhatt. The film was critically acclaimed and became one of the highest-grossing films of the year.
Lust Stories (2018)
Karan Johar directed one of the segments in the anthology film “Lust Stories,” which was released on Netflix. The film explored modern relationships and sexuality, and Johar’s segment was noted for its bold and humorous take on the subject.
During this period, Karan Johar demonstrated his versatility by balancing commercial hits with experimental projects, further solidifying his position as a leading filmmaker in Bollywood.
Karan Johar Career expansion (2018–present):
Film Production and Direction
“Kalank” (2019): Produced by Karan Johar, this period drama featured an ensemble cast including Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan, Madhuri Dixit, and Sanjay Dutt. Although it received mixed reviews, it was noted for its grand scale and visual appeal.
“Good Newwz” (2019): A comedy-drama produced by Dharma Productions, starring Akshay Kumar, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Diljit Dosanjh, and Kiara Advani. The film was a commercial success and praised for its humor and performances.
“Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl” (2020): Produced by Karan Johar, this biographical film starred Janhvi Kapoor and was based on the life of Indian Air Force pilot Gunjan Saxena. It received positive reviews for its inspiring story and performances.
“Shershaah” (2021): A biographical war film produced by Dharma Productions, starring Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani. The film was a critical and commercial success, praised for its portrayal of Captain Vikram Batra’s life.
Digital Ventures
Karan Johar has also embraced digital platforms, producing content for streaming services:
“Lust Stories” (2018) and “Ghost Stories” (2020): Anthology films released on Netflix, with Karan Johar directing segments in both.
“Fabulous Lives of Bollywood Wives” (2020): A reality TV series produced by Karan Johar, offering a glimpse into the lives of Bollywood star wives.
Television and Hosting
Karan Johar continued to host his popular talk show “Koffee with Karan,” which remains a favorite for its candid celebrity interviews and entertaining format. He also hosted “Bigg Boss OTT” in 2021, bringing his unique style to the reality show.
New Ventures and Collaborations
DCA (Dharma Cornerstone Agency): In 2021, Karan Johar launched this talent management agency to nurture and promote new talent in the industry.
“Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani” (Upcoming): Karan Johar is set to return to directing with this romantic drama, starring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt.
Books and Writing
Karan Johar has also ventured into writing, with his autobiography “An Unsuitable Boy” (2017) offering insights into his personal and professional life.
Philanthropy and Social Initiatives
Karan Johar has been involved in various philanthropic activities, supporting causes related to education, healthcare, and disaster relief.
This period has seen Karan Johar diversify his portfolio, embracing new formats and platforms while continuing to produce and direct successful films. His ability to adapt and innovate has kept him at the forefront of the Indian entertainment industry.
Karan Johar as a Producer:
Early Productions
“Kal Ho Naa Ho” (2003): Directed by Nikkhil Advani, this romantic drama starring Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, and Saif Ali Khan was a major hit and is still loved for its emotional storyline and memorable music.
“Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna” (2006): Directed by Karan Johar himself, this film explored complex relationships and was both a commercial success and critically acclaimed.
2008–2012: Diverse Projects
“Dostana” (2008): A comedy about two men pretending to be gay, starring Abhishek Bachchan, John Abraham, and Priyanka Chopra.
“Wake Up Sid” (2009): A coming-of-age film starring Ranbir Kapoor and Konkona Sen Sharma.
“My Name Is Khan” (2010): Directed by Karan Johar, this film tackled issues of Islamophobia and was a critical and commercial success.
“Agneepath” (2012): A remake of the 1990 film, starring Hrithik Roshan and Priyanka Chopra, which was well-received for its intense performances and direction.
2013–2018: Expanding Horizons
“Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani” (2013): A romantic drama directed by Ayan Mukerji, starring Ranbir Kapoor and Deepika Padukone.
“2 States” (2014): Based on Chetan Bhagat’s novel, starring Alia Bhatt and Arjun Kapoor.
“Kapoor & Sons” (2016): A family drama directed by Shakun Batra, praised for its realistic portrayal of family issues.
“Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” (2016): Directed by Karan Johar, this romantic drama starred Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.
“Raazi” (2018): A spy thriller directed by Meghna Gulzar, starring Alia Bhatt.
2018–Present: Digital Ventures and New Projects
“Lust Stories” (2018) and “Ghost Stories” (2020): Anthology films released on Netflix, with Karan Johar directing segments in both.
“Good Newwz” (2019): A comedy-drama starring Akshay Kumar, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Diljit Dosanjh, and Kiara Advani.
“Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl” (2020): A biographical film starring Janhvi Kapoor.
“Shershaah” (2021): A biographical war film starring Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani.
“Jug Jugg Jeeyo” (2022): A family comedy-drama starring Varun Dhawan, Kiara Advani, Anil Kapoor, and Neetu Kapoor.
Upcoming Projects
“Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani”: Directed by Karan Johar, starring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt.
“Brahmāstra”: A fantasy adventure trilogy directed by Ayan Mukerji, starring Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and Amitabh Bachchan.
