Karan Johar says he felt terrible watching Babil Khan’s breakdown video calling Bollywood ‘fake’
etimes.in | May 16, 2025, 12.20 AM IST
Karan Johar recently spoke about the intense scrutiny he faces online, particularly regarding issues of nepotism and the reception of his latest production, 'Nadaaniyan', starring Saif Ali Khan’s son, Ibrahim Ali Khan, in his Bollywood debut.
Karan's reaction to trolls
In an interview with Galatta Plus, Karan addressed the constant trolling he receives for backing the film. While many are quick to criticise him for launching star kids, Johar noted that his efforts to support industry outsiders often go unrecognised. Citing his collaborations with director Neeraj Ghaywan, Johar pointed out that few acknowledge his role in projects like Ajeeb Daastaans or the upcoming Homebound. “Cinema intellectuals will gush about anybody else, but if it’s Dharma Productions, they will say nothing,” he remarked.
Karan about 'Nadaaniyan' criticisms
Discussing the backlash surrounding 'Nadaaniyan', he observed a pattern in how the internet engages with such projects. “Hating on Nadaaniyan became fashionable. The more you hate on it, the more videos you put out, the more engagement you will get. People are loving nepo kid bashing and I’m like, ‘move on,’” he said.
When asked about allegations that his production house favours star children over newcomers without film backgrounds, Johar denied it. He further explained that he would continue casting actors he believes in, regardless of their lineage. “Am I the face of Bollywood hate? And if I am, then thank you for giving me this elevation. But do I deserve it? I don’t think so,” he added.
About Babil Khan's recent break down
Johar also reflected on a recent, emotionally charged post by Babil Khan, son of actor Irrfan Khan, who shared a weeping video online where he called Bollywood a “fake industry”. Karan said he felt sad like anyone would, but he also felt terrible as a parent to two children.
Karan's reaction to trolls
In an interview with Galatta Plus, Karan addressed the constant trolling he receives for backing the film. While many are quick to criticise him for launching star kids, Johar noted that his efforts to support industry outsiders often go unrecognised. Citing his collaborations with director Neeraj Ghaywan, Johar pointed out that few acknowledge his role in projects like Ajeeb Daastaans or the upcoming Homebound. “Cinema intellectuals will gush about anybody else, but if it’s Dharma Productions, they will say nothing,” he remarked.
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Karan about 'Nadaaniyan' criticisms
Discussing the backlash surrounding 'Nadaaniyan', he observed a pattern in how the internet engages with such projects. “Hating on Nadaaniyan became fashionable. The more you hate on it, the more videos you put out, the more engagement you will get. People are loving nepo kid bashing and I’m like, ‘move on,’” he said.
When asked about allegations that his production house favours star children over newcomers without film backgrounds, Johar denied it. He further explained that he would continue casting actors he believes in, regardless of their lineage. “Am I the face of Bollywood hate? And if I am, then thank you for giving me this elevation. But do I deserve it? I don’t think so,” he added.
About Babil Khan's recent break down
Johar also reflected on a recent, emotionally charged post by Babil Khan, son of actor Irrfan Khan, who shared a weeping video online where he called Bollywood a “fake industry”. Karan said he felt sad like anyone would, but he also felt terrible as a parent to two children.