Karan Johar recently revealed the heartwarming story of how his friendship with Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan blossomed on the sets of the iconic film Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge (DDLJ).
Karan Johar and Shah Rukh Khan, a celebrated actor-director duo, have shared a camaraderie lasting more than 28 years, a friendship that traces its roots back to the making of DDLJ. During a recent interview, Karan Johar shared the tale of his journey into the world of filmmaking and the genesis of his friendship with SRK.
Despite having a father entrenched in the Bollywood industry, Karan revealed that he had not attended any film school. He credited Aditya Chopra for convincing him to join the movies, leading to him becoming an assistant director on the set of DDLJ. Sharing his initial responsibilities, Karan reminisced about the task of finding a costume for Shah Rukh Khan from the boxes that contained costumes from the late Sridevi starrer Chandni.
The filmmaker vividly recalled the first encounter with SRK on set, where he suggested to the actor, “You should wear tight jeans, your body shape would look better in tighter jeans. You should show your Adam’s apple because girls think it is very attractive.”
SRK, bemused by the unexpected fashion advice, promptly called for Aditya Chopra. Karan shared that SRK questioned Aditya about the newcomer suggesting him to showcase his Adam’s apple and wear tight jeans. Aditya’s response was simple but affirming, “He is a townie, he knows all these things, so just listen to him.” That moment, as Karan recalled, marked the beginning of their enduring friendship.
DDLJ was released in 1995 and went on to become a cultural phenomenon. Alongside Shah Rukh Khan, the film starred Kajol, Anupam Kher, Amrish Puri, and others.
On the professional front, Shah Rukh Khan delivered three consecutive blockbusters in 2023, namely Pathaan, Jawan, and Dunki. In a recent interview with MBC while promoting Dunki in the Middle East, the actor revealed plans to commence shooting for his next project in March-April 2024, signaling his eagerly anticipated return to the big screen within the next 12-15 months.
