By Allycaral Desk
Filmmaker Karan Johar got candid about his late father, legendary producer Yash Johar, in an emotional conversation with Sania Mirza on her podcast Serving It Up with Sania for Myntra.
Reflecting on his upbringing and the values his father instilled, Karan described Yash Johar as a man of “wealthy character” — not in money, but in kindness, generosity, and integrity. “He believed in karma,” Karan said. “He always told me to give selflessly, to never expect anything in return.”
Unlike the often distant father-son relationships, Karan and Yash shared a deep emotional connection. “He was a hugger and a kisser,” Karan recalled. “Even when I weighed 100 kilos, he’d make me sit on his lap and pinch my cheeks.”
Karan fondly remembered how his father celebrated his individuality — even when it went against stereotypes. “He never cared that I did Kathak. He’d clap with joy. He was obsessed with me — he refused to see any flaws.”
When Kuch Kuch Hota Hai released in 1998, Yash Johar’s pride knew no bounds. “He thought I was James Cameron overnight,” Karan joked. “He’d tell people, ‘Mera beta director number one hai — Hindustan mein kya, globally!’ I used to feel awkward, but he was my biggest fan.”
Yash Johar, who founded Dharma Productions, passed away in 2004, but his legacy continues through his son’s work and warmth. Karan ended the conversation by saying, “My father was my moral compass. He taught me that true wealth lies in goodness.”
