Karan Johar, the acclaimed Indian filmmaker with a remarkable track record of successful films, recently shared his candid thoughts and emotions in an exclusive Pinkvilla Masterclass. The discussion primarily revolved around his film journey spanning over 25 years, but he particularly delved into the stress and anxiety he experienced before the release of his latest blockbuster, “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani,” which raked in over Rs 330 crores at the global box office. In this article, we will delve into Karan Johar’s recollections of the stress he endured leading up to the release of the film and how he ultimately realized he had a winning project on his hands.
The Masterclass event, curated by Himesh Mankad, provided a unique insight into the mind of one of Bollywood’s most influential filmmakers. It offered a glimpse into the emotions and struggles that even someone as successful as Karan Johar faces in the fiercely competitive world of Indian cinema.
Karan Johar began by acknowledging that he was indeed stressed before the release of “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.” In a frank and open-hearted manner, he admitted, “I was very stressed. I thought I was going to have a cardiac arrest.” This confession sets the tone for a deeply personal and introspective discussion about the intense pressure he felt in the days leading up to the film’s release.
Karan Johar elaborated on the nature of his stress, describing it as not just mental but also physical. He recounted how his body would shiver and shake due to the anxiety and nervousness he was experiencing. This level of anxiety was largely rooted in the fact that the film marked a significant moment in his career. After a seven-year gap between his directorial projects and a three-year period filled with various challenges, including online trolling and personal anxiety, the pressure had mounted.
Johar reflected on the negative environment that had surrounded him personally and the Indian film industry during this period. The relentless scrutiny, criticism, and negativity took a toll not just on him but also on his family, particularly his mother. It was a challenging time for them as a family unit, and they had to confront the harsh realities of the industry.
What becomes evident from Johar’s narrative is the extent to which he sought validation for his work with this film. He expressed his desire to prove that he was still a relevant filmmaker who could connect with today’s audiences. This deep need for validation stemmed from the struggles he had faced and the doubts that had plagued him during those three tough years.
The emotional toll of seeking this validation and the anxiety that came with it are striking. Even someone as accomplished as Karan Johar, with a string of successful films to his name, could not escape the pervasive pressure and self-doubt that can plague artists in the film industry.
As the Masterclass continued, Karan Johar shared the pivotal moment when he realized that “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani” had resonated with audiences in a profoundly positive way. He recounted, “On Friday, on Saturday, I don’t think I have ever received this kind of love. Filmmakers, actors were calling me. Audiences were reaching out to me from everywhere. People were telling me that they are going back to watch the film.”
The outpouring of love and admiration from both the industry and the audience was overwhelming. Johar noted that respected actors, serious filmmakers, and revered figures from the film fraternity were acknowledging the film’s brilliance. They praised the movie for its powerful messaging and entertaining quality. This level of recognition was deeply satisfying for Karan Johar, who had previously harbored doubts about whether he was taken seriously as a filmmaker.
The acknowledgment and respect he received from his peers and the audience marked a turning point. It was a moment when he felt that he was not just walking but possibly sprinting towards success. The validation he had so desperately sought had finally arrived, and he described this moment as taking his first breath, which felt incredibly liberating.
This candid discussion by Karan Johar sheds light on the emotional rollercoaster that filmmakers often go through during a film’s release. It highlights the vulnerability, self-doubt, and relentless pursuit of validation that even the most accomplished artists may face. It’s a reminder that success in the entertainment industry is not immune to the human emotions and struggles that are a part of the creative journey.
In addition to reflecting on the release and success of “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani,” Karan Johar also provided insights into his future projects. He mentioned that he is preparing for his first foray into the action genre, which will be a significant departure from his previous works. This move showcases his versatility as a filmmaker and his willingness to explore different genres.
Furthermore, Johar expressed his desire to revive “Takht,” a highly-anticipated historical drama that had been put on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This announcement will undoubtedly excite fans who have been eagerly anticipating the release of “Takht,” which boasts a star-studded cast and the promise of epic storytelling.
In conclusion, Karan Johar’s exclusive Pinkvilla Masterclass provided a unique glimpse into the inner workings of a prolific filmmaker’s mind. His candid revelations about the stress and anxiety he experienced leading up to the release of “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani” humanize the otherwise glamorous world of Bollywood. They serve as a reminder that even the most successful individuals in the industry have their moments of doubt and vulnerability. Johar’s journey is a testament to the resilience and passion that drive artists to create, evolve, and continue to seek validation in an ever-changing and demanding industry.
