From iconic Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham to Rocky aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, and many more family sagas. Director Karan Johar has spent over two decades defining what the mainstream Bollywood genre looks and feels like to watch. Born on May 25, 1972, the director-producer built Dharma Production into one of the most prominent banners today in Bollywood, which built its identity over many hits. As KJo turns 54, here are 7 of his best pieces of work to watch on OTT.
Karan Johar Films That Will Make You Nostalgic
Karan Johar has been among those few filmmakers who have shaped Bollywood’s emotional language. On his 54th birthday, here are seven of his best streaming on OTTs. From family sagas to romance dramas, KJo has something for everyone and every age group.
Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998)-Netflix
Karan Johar’s directorial debut starred SRK, Kajol and Rani Mukerji in a classic college love triangle in which Rahul falls for Tina while his best friend Anjali is crushing over him. The film provides wholesome entertainment and remains the most-watched Bollywood love stories.
Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham (2001) – Netflix
KJo brought together Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan, alongside SRK, Kajol, Hrithik and Kareena Kapoor for a family drama that has been a cult favourite in every indian household. with characters like Poo and Anjali becoming the pop culture icons of the 2000s.
Kabhi Alvidaa Na Kehna (2006) – Amazon Prime Video
The film is set in New York, revolving around the story of Dev and Maya, two unhappy married individuals who meet and eventually fall in love. This film explores the theme of marital dissatisfaction that was then considered controversial in mainstream Bollywood.
My Name Is Khan (2010) – Amazon Prime Video
Directed by KJo, this film follows a Mumbai native with Asperger’s syndrome on a journey to meet the president of the US. This is a deeply emotional story about identity, faith and love in post 9/11 attacks in the US. This film brought KJo his second Filmfare award for best director.
Ae Dil Hai Mushkil (2016) — Amazon Prime Video
Starring Ranbir Kapoor and Anushka Sharma alongside Aishwarya Rai, this musical romantic drama explored the pain of one-sided love through KJo’s most personal storytelling way to date. The soundtracks from this film topped the charts and found a permanent place in the audience’s hearts.
Kapoor & Sons (2016) — Netflix
Produced by Karan Johar and directed by Shakun Batra, this quietly devastating family drama follows two estranged brothers returning home to an almost broken family. The film subtly addresses themes of homosexuality while being Dharma’s most realistic story. creating a contrast to Kjo’s signature filmmaking style.
Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023) — Amazon Prime Video
This 2023 romantic film brought together the Gully Boy cast once again on the big screen. As two people falling for each other despite their contrasting worlds. In the film, Raveer played the character of a vibrant Punjabi guy, Rocky, whereas Alia portrayed an intellectual journalist, Rani.