Karan Johar, one of Bollywood’s most prominent filmmakers, has often been in the spotlight, not just for his work but also for the frequent trolling and negativity he has faced over the years. Despite his success, Johar has had to deal with personal attacks, both in the public eye and during his formative years. Recently, he opened up about these experiences, shedding light on the challenges he faced while growing up and how he eventually learned to embrace his true self. Also Read- Kartik Aaryan Leases His Rs 17.5 Crore Juhu Apartment for Rs 4.5 Lakh Per Month? Here’s What We Know!
In a candid conversation with astrologer and spiritual coach Dr. Jai Madaan on her YouTube channel, Karan Johar reflected on his childhood and the struggles he faced because he felt different from other boys. He recalled how, as a young boy, he often felt out of place among his peers. “Mujhe laga main doosron ladkon ki tarah nahin hoon,” he said, which translates to “I felt that I wasn’t like the other boys.” He further elaborated, “I was never like the other boys—their interests, their style, their sports—it just wasn’t me.” This sense of being different was something that took him years to come to terms with, but it eventually became a source of strength. Johar emphasized that he no longer feels the need to apologize for being different, stating, “I’ve embraced who I am, and that’s become my power.”
However, the journey to self-acceptance was not an easy one. The 52-year-old filmmaker shared that he was frequently labeled a “pansy” during his childhood because he was perceived as feminine. This derogatory term, often used to demean those who don’t conform to traditional gender norms, had a profound impact on him. “It was this particular comment which felt like a verbal attack on my core being, my personality,” he said. Johar admitted that these hurtful words made him question his identity and left him feeling isolated and misunderstood. He struggled with expressing himself and his interests, which were different from those of other boys.
The toll of these verbal attacks led Johar into a difficult period where he sought comfort in food. Between the ages of 7 and 9, he turned to chocolates and desserts as a way to cope with the pain and confusion he felt. This emotional eating resulted in weight gain, further compounding his feelings of being different. Despite these challenges, Johar eventually found a way to love and accept himself. Also Read- Kangana Ranaut Considering Inviting Gandhi Family to Emergency Screening? Says “Hope They See the Film and Enjoy It”; Read Now to Know More!
Karan Johar’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance is a testament to his resilience. Over the years, he has learned to live his truth unapologetically, a lesson that has shaped not only his personal life but also his career. “To this day, I have never regretted the way I’ve lived or the work I’ve pursued. Everything I do is for me, unapologetically. I just want to live my truth,” he stated with pride.
Today, Johar stands as a powerful figure in the film industry, not just for his cinematic achievements but also for his courage in being true to himself. His story serves as an inspiration for many who may be struggling with their own identities, reminding them that embracing who you are is the greatest strength of all.
