Shah Rukh Khan: The Global Face of Bollywood says Karan Johar

Director credits SRK’s unparalleled charisma for Bollywood’s international acclaim

The dynamic partnership between Shah Rukh Khan and Karan Johar began with Johar’s directorial debut, “Kuch Kuch Hota Hai,” a film that not only captivated Indian audiences but also resonated profoundly with viewers worldwide. This collaboration set the stage for subsequent successes like “Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham” and “Kal Ho Naa Ho,” solidifying their status as a formidable actor-director duo.

In a recent episode of “Game Changers,” Karan Johar delved into the factors behind his films’ international success. When questioned about this achievement, Johar attributed it primarily to Shah Rukh Khan’s influence. He elaborated, stating that Khan’s universal appeal and emotional resonance with audiences have been pivotal in elevating Bollywood’s global profile.

Johar further emphasized that the widespread love and respect garnered by his films abroad are largely due to Khan’s iconic status. Tracing the trajectory from “Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge” to “Dil To Pagal Hai,” followed by their joint projects, Johar highlighted these films as foundational pillars that introduced international audiences to Bollywood. He remarked, “For people abroad, Bollywood and films mean Shah Rukh Khan.”

Describing Khan’s impact, Johar noted, “He is not just a star; he is an emotion. When he appears on the big screen, the whole world celebrates.” He acknowledged that many in the industry, including himself, have leveraged Khan’s immense popularity to achieve global recognition. Johar also expressed unwavering loyalty to both Shah Rukh Khan and filmmaker-producer Aditya Chopra, crediting them for significantly shaping his career.

On the professional front, Karan Johar is co-producing the upcoming romantic drama “Dhadak 2” under his banner, Dharma Productions. Written and directed by Shazia Iqbal, the film features Triptii Dimri and Siddhant Chaturvedi in lead roles.

Meanwhile, Shah Rukh Khan’s fans eagerly await his appearance in the action thriller “King,” which also marks the big-screen debut of his daughter, Suhana Khan. This project promises to be a significant milestone in both their careers.