As Bollywood’s beloved filmmaker Karan Johar celebrates his birthday, it’s the perfect time to revisit some of his most iconic love stories.
Johar, the head of Dharma Productions, has given us films that deal with love, heartbreak and the complexities of relationships. Here are five films that establish Karan Johar as one of the best directors of love films.
1. Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)
Johar’s directorial debut, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, is nothing short of a legend. The film explores themes of first love and friendship through the lives of Rahul (Shah Rukh Khan), Anjali (Kajol) and Tina (Rani Mukerji). The story progresses seamlessly from college days filled with youthful exuberance to a heartwarming journey of rediscovery and second chances. Its memorable dialogues and famous songs have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema, making it a timeless love story.
2. Sometimes happy sometimes sad (2001)
The multi-starrer film ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham’ is a family drama full of romance. The film shows the story of a wealthy family led by Yashvardhan Raichand (Amitabh Bachchan) and his wife Nandini (Jaya Bachchan), focusing on their sons Rahul (Shahrukh Khan) and Rohan (Hrithik Roshan). The love stories between Rahul and Anjali (Kajol) and Rohan and Pooja (Kareena Kapoor) are beautifully portrayed, emphasizing the themes of love beyond social norms and familial bonds.
3. Never Say Alvida (2006)
Breaking away from conventional love stories, ‘Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna’ depicts the complexities of extramarital affairs and the search for true love. The film stars Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Abhishek Bachchan and Preity Zinta in a story that challenges societal notions about marriage and fidelity. Johar has handled such a bold subject with sensitivity, and the powerful performances and soulful music make it a standout in his filmography.
4. My Name Is Khan (2010)
Though primarily a story about identity and acceptance, ‘My Name Is Khan’ also features a touching love story between Rizwan Khan (Shah Rukh Khan), who suffers from Asperger’s syndrome, and Mandira (Kajol). Johar has cleverly woven their romance into a larger story about overcoming prejudice and the power of love to heal and unite.
5. Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016):
‘Ae Dil Hai Mushkil’ is a depiction of unrequited love and the bittersweet nature of relationships. The film stars Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in the lead roles and follows Ayan’s (Kapoor) journey through love, friendship and heartbreak. Johar’s directorial venture beautifully portrays the intensity of unrequited love and the complexities of modern relationships.
Karan Johar’s contribution to Bollywood as a master of love stories is undeniable. His films not only entertain but also depict the myriad emotions and challenges associated with love and relationships. On the occasion of his birthday, these five films show how he has depicted the many shades of love on the silver screen.
