Known for his blockbuster films, larger-than-life sets, and star-studded parties, Karan Johar has made quite a name for himself in the industry. However, along with his success, he has also found himself embroiled in several controversies that have left us all shocked.
Karan Johar’s top controversies that have made headlines over the years.
The Nepotism Debate
One of the most talked-about controversies involving Karan Johar is the infamous nepotism debate. It all started during an episode of his popular talk show, Koffee with Karan, when guest Kangana Ranaut accused him of being the “flagbearer of nepotism” in Bollywood. This sparked a heated debate in the industry, with many people taking sides and expressing their opinions on the matter.
Johar’s response to the controversy only added fuel to the fire. He unabashedly admitted that he believes in giving opportunities to star kids and launching them in his films. While some defended his stance, others criticized him for perpetuating nepotism and not giving enough chances to talented outsiders.
The Ae Dil Hai Mushkil Controversy
In 2016, Karan Johar’s film Ae Dil Hai Mushkil faced a major controversy surrounding its release. The Bollywood film featured Pakistani actor Fawad Khan in a prominent role, and this was during a time of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan. As a result, there were calls to ban Pakistani artists from working in Indian films.
Johar found himself caught in the crossfire, with political parties and organizations threatening to disrupt the film’s release if he did not replace Fawad Khan. The controversy escalated to the point where Johar had to release a video statement pledging his support for the Indian army and vowing not to work with Pakistani artists in the future.
The Drug Allegations
In 2020, Karan Johar found himself in the midst of a drug controversy when a video from one of his parties went viral. The video showed several Bollywood celebrities, including Johar himself, allegedly in a drugged state. This led to widespread speculation and accusations of drug abuse within the industry.
Johar vehemently denied the allegations and clarified that the video was taken out of context. He maintained that it was a private party where no drugs were consumed. However, the controversy had already taken hold, and Johar’s reputation was tarnished as a result.
The Kangana Ranaut Feud
Karan Johar’s ongoing feud with Kangana Ranaut has been one of the most publicized controversies in recent years. It all began when Ranaut called Johar the “flagbearer of nepotism” on his talk show. This sparked a war of words between the two, with both parties taking jabs at each other in interviews and on social media.
The feud reached its peak when Johar and Ranaut engaged in a heated argument at a public event, with Johar even going as far as to say that he would never work with her again. The controversy divided the industry, with some supporting Johar and others siding with Ranaut.
The Padma Shri Controversy
In 2020, Karan Johar was awarded the prestigious Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors. However, the announcement of his award sparked a major controversy, with many questioning the decision to honor him.
Critics argued that Johar’s contributions to Indian cinema did not warrant such a prestigious award and that it was a case of favoritism and nepotism. The controversy reignited the debate surrounding Johar’s influence in the industry and whether he truly deserved the recognition.
