Karan Johar opens up about how 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' helped him overcome heartbreak

Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, the 2016 romantic drama directed by Karan Johar and featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, and Aishwarya Rai in lead roles, is approaching its seventh anniversary since its release. 

In a recent interview, Karan Johar reflected on how this film helped him navigate through a challenging period in his life that spanned about seven to eight years. He also shared that the character portrayed by Ranbir Kapoor in the movie was inspired by someone outside the film industry.

During a conversation with Mid-Day, Karan discussed his past relationship and the therapeutic role that Ae Dil Hai Mushkil played in helping him heal from heartbreak. 

He mentioned, "It was initially awkward because his character dies. The character obviously went through a fictional arc as well, but it was cathartic for me to tell that story because I felt that really helped me get over that love situation."

He went on to elaborate on the pain of one-sided love, or "ektarfa pyaar," describing the emotional toll it takes. Karan emphasized how love can both build and destroy a person, leaving them broken and in physical pain. He also highlighted the anxiety and heartache that often accompany unrequited love.

Karan Johar acknowledged that Ae Dil Hai Mushkil received mixed reactions from audiences, but he believed that its conclusion resonated strongly with the younger generation. Reflecting on his journey, Karan mentioned that the film provided closure and valuable perspective, preventing him from revisiting that emotional zone.