Karan Johar plans on making separate film for Dharmendra-Shabana’s love story in Rocky Rani Kii Prem Kahani

For Karan Johar, filmmaking has always been a deeply emotional journey. Whether it is telling stories of first love or navigating family conflicts through music and drama, his directorial work has left a lasting mark on Hindi cinema. Now, two years after the release of Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, the filmmaker is revisiting the film’s impact and how it fits into his body of work.

The 2023 romantic drama, which marked his return to direction after a long break, turned out to be both a commercial success and a critical favourite. In a recent conversation with The Times of India, Karan spoke about the film’s place among his most cherished creations and reflected on the conversations it sparked.

“It is right up there with My Name Is Khan and, of course, my first directorial Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, which remains special as it brought a smile to my father’s (the eminent producer Yash Johar) face. Our production house was suffering huge deficits when I made Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. It brought huge financial respite to my dad,” Karan shared.

The chemistry between Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt was widely appreciated, but another moment that drew major attention was the unexpected kiss between Dharmendra and Shabana Azmi. The scene created a stir online and became one of the film’s most discussed moments.

Reacting to the buzz, Karan added, “There is a separate love story there. I may one day make a film on their love story in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.”

There is a separate love story there. I may one day make a film on their love story in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.

- Karan Johar

Through the lens of romance and tradition, the film managed to highlight changing social values without losing its emotional warmth. Karan’s direction blended the larger than life visuals he is known for with layered characters that resonated with audiences across generations.

Looking back, Karan seems proud of the choices he made with this film. Rocky Aur Rani may have begun as a love story, but for the director, it became a statement on reinvention and storytelling with heart.