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KJo on KANK: "Shame on you" reaction revisited
11 Aug
Summary
- Filmmaker Karan Johar recalled an angry mother's harsh critique post-screening.
- He acknowledged the film's excessive scale and unnecessary songs.
- Johar maintained the romantic drama's emotional core was sincere.

Filmmaker Karan Johar has revisited the polarizing reception of his 2006 film 'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna' as it nears its 20th anniversary. Johar shared an anecdote from a preview screening where a woman confronted him, expressing dismay over the film's depiction of marital issues, stating, "Shame on you." He acknowledged that the film, starring Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji, had flaws, including an "over-bloated" scale and songs included solely to cater to mainstream expectations.
Despite these admitted shortcomings, Johar maintained that the film's "heart was always in the right place." He clarified that the movie's intention was never to endorse infidelity but rather to explore how stepping outside marital boundaries can be destructive. The film's themes of marital dissatisfaction, infidelity, and desire sparked significant debate, with some viewers finding it bold and emotionally honest, while others felt it contradicted traditional values.
Johar also recalled a lighter moment where a woman confessed to enjoying the film but lied to her husband about it to avoid uncomfortable questions. He noted that 'Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna' continues to resonate with audiences, with its exploration of complex relationships finding renewed relevance. The film remains one of Johar's most discussed directorial efforts.