Filmmaker Karan Johar has openly expressed his deep affection and admiration for superstar Shah Rukh Khan, revealing that Shah Rukh was the first person who made him feel completely comfortable with his sexuality. In a candid discussion on the 'We Are Yuvaa' podcast, KJo delved into his early struggles, his sexuality, and the invaluable support he found in his confidant, Shah Rukh Khan. Karan shared, "I think the first person that made me feel that I was okay was Shah Rukh Khan. He has been brought up in a very progressive environment, he comes from theatre, he has worked with all kinds of people." Karan explained how, during his childhood, his unique personality was often met with ridicule and laughter, particularly when his more effeminate side was evident. ALSO READ | WHAT! Karan Johar Asked Shah Rukh Khan To Unbutton His Shirt On Their First Meet; Filmmaker Recalls Hilarious Anecdotes From DDLJ Shoot
As he grew older, the situation changed, but there was still a sense of unease and judgment around him. Karan revealed that Shah Rukh Khan was the one who didn't make him feel inferior; instead, he treated him as an equal and accepted him for who he was. Karan added, "He had a lot of open chats with me. Even when I had to discuss the most significant aspects of my personality and sexuality, I talked to him first because I felt he would provide that influence and sense of support." ALSO READ | Karan Johar Reveals THIS Legendary Artist REFUSED Kuch Kuch Hota Hai For Its Title But Regretted His Decision Later-READ BELOW
Reflecting on Indian cinema's portrayal of masculinity, Karan observed, "I feel like Indian cinema has painted the most flawed interpretations of what a man should be." Karan also spoke about Shah Rukh's first reaction to his sexuality, saying, "It's what he didn't say. It's what he didn't bring up, it's what he normalized. When I acted differently, spoke differently, or did things that were considered campy, he laughed, hung out with me, and had conversations with me. That's all that matters."
Opening up about his childhood trauma and self-esteem, Karan admitted, "I haven't learned to love myself as much as people might think. I still have many body issues. Even now, I prefer to swim in private surroundings because I'm not entirely comfortable with my body. What I am comfortable with is myself." He discussed how fashion became his way of self-expression, saying, "The moment I put on that black suit, it's like my armor. When I delve into fashion, I found my voice. I realized I want to wear what I want, regardless of what people say."
Karan added, "People on social media comment on my clothing, call me a cheap copy of Ranveer Singh, and use derogatory terms, but I have developed a thick skin for that now." On the professional front, Karan recently directed 'Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani,' starring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt, and has 'Yodha' and 'Jigra' in the pipeline.