Karan Johar’sKuch Kuch Hota Hai (KKHH) won our hearts years back and is still relevant in today’s time as “pyaar dosti hai”.
In a recent chat, Karan Johar has revealed which actors he would cast if he were to reimagine the iconic romance today. Interestingly, top stars like Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, and Kiara Advani didn’t make the list.
Younger nepo babies to be a part of modern KKHH
In a recent conversation with Sania Mirza for Myntra’s Glam Stream, Karan Johar named Alia Bhatt as his choice for the modern-day Anjali, Ranveer Singh as Rahul, and Ananya Panday as Tina. He also hinted that the role of Tina could alternatively go to Janhvi Kapoor or Sara Ali Khan, playfully referring to this generation of young stars as “younger nepo babies.”
Karan on Nepotism: “None of Their Parents Have Ever Called Me”
Addressing the topic of nepotism, Karan clarified that he has never hired anyone at the request of their parents. “I know they are nepo babies. I’ve seen them grow up in front of me. But none of their parents have ever called me. I have always been the one to call,” he said. He also mentioned that some actors have even declined his offers.
Reflecting on Dharma Productions’ Journey
Karan also reflected on the evolution of Dharma Productions, tracing its journey from Yash Johar’s first film Dostana (1980) to the studio’s challenges with films like Duniya and Agneepath. The turning point came with Kuch Kuch Hota Hai in 1998, starring Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, and Rani Mukerji. The film’s massive success revived the banner, paving the way for Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham and establishing Dharma Productions as a Bollywood powerhouse, now valued at approximately Rs 2,000 crore.
While Karan hasn’t yet directed any of the new-generation actors in full-length roles, Ananya, Janhvi, and Sara made cameo appearances in his recent film Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, specifically in the song Heart Throb, offering fans a glimpse of what a modern-day KKHH might look like.
Upcoming Projects from Dharma Productions
Karan Johar is gearing up for an exciting slate of projects under his Dharma Productions banner, reflecting his desire to explore new genres and nurture fresh talent. One of these is Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri, a romantic drama starring Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday, slated for release in early 2026. Another is the high-concept fantasy-comedy Naagzilla, featuring Kartik in the lead, scheduled for an August 2026 release.