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Karan Johar Reflects on Gender Politics in ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’
Karan Johar, the renowned filmmaker, has publicly acknowledged the contentious gender politics presented in his seminal work, ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.’ During a recent discussion with comedian Zakir Khan on the show ‘Aapka Apna Zakir Khan,’ Johar candidly recounted a past conversation with celebrated actor Shabana Azmi, who previously challenged him on the film’s gender dynamics. Johar revealed that he extended his apologies to her regarding the film’s shortcomings.
In his self-reflective remarks, Johar commented, “I don’t like any of my films; I see numerous mistakes in them. Watching ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ now makes me cringe. I question, ‘What have I created?’ There are many errors in the film. I recall Shabana ji reaching out to me and asking, ‘What is the gender politics in this film? When Kajol’s character sports short hair, Shah Rukh Khan’s character is not attracted to her, but once she grows her hair long and conforms to a certain beauty standard, he falls for her. How do you explain this?’ To which I replied, ‘I am sorry. I didn’t know.’”
Previously, at a forum hosted by IIMUN, Johar had also lambasted ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ for its portrayal of gender roles and admitted that it “promoted flawed gender politics.” He reflected on his personal growth since then, asserting, “With ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai,’ I now recognize that the film’s gender politics were misguided. It propagates incorrect views on gender, and despite the nostalgia that surrounds it, a deeper examination reveals that Rahul’s behavior is not something I would endorse for any audience members or young men in particular.”
Released in 1998, ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ marked Karan Johar’s directorial debut and quickly became a landmark in Indian cinema. The film is celebrated for its iconic dialogues, memorable soundtrack, and compelling performances by its leading stars—Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and Rani Mukerji.
At its core, ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ tells the story of Rahul (Shah Rukh Khan) and his best friend Anjali (Kajol), complicated by the arrival of Tina (Rani Mukerji) into their lives. The narrative is divided into two halves: the first captures their college experiences filled with friendship, unreciprocated affection, and heartache, while the latter unfolds the reunion of Rahul and Anjali, orchestrated by a letter from Tina intended for her daughter before her untimely death.
The film delicately weaves together themes of love, friendship, and fate, punctuated by an amalgamation of humor and drama. ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ is fondly remembered for its vibrant energy and a timeless soundtrack that features hits like ‘Tujhe Yaad Na Meri Aayi,’ ‘Ladki Badi Anjaani Hai,’ and the titular track, ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.’
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