Karan Johar reflects on Ranveer-Alia's artistry in 'Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani ahead of the new year

In the eventful year of 2023, Karan Johar found himself immersed in a unique journey marked by his directorial comeback with "Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani." The family romantic comedy not only resonated with critics but also struck a chord with audiences, garnering widespread love and appreciation. As the curtains fall on the year, the prolific filmmaker took a moment to extend his heartfelt gratitude to the lead stars of his cinematic venture, the dynamic duo of Alia Bhatt and Ranveer Singh.

In a poignant social media post, Karan Johar praised the exceptional talent of Alia and Ranveer, acknowledging their pivotal roles in making the movie a success. He also reflected on the cherished friendship they share as a trio, underscoring the camaraderie that extends beyond the film set. The heartfelt caption accompanied a delightful selfie capturing the trio's infectious bond.

It read, "Before the years wraps I felt like sharing this with all of you…I hadn’t directed Alia since 2012 and the day she walked onto set In her @manishmalhotra05 plus @mickeycontractor plus #flavian look I knew we had the Rani I had always envisaged …. What followed was an actor I wasn’t prepared for…. And I can take zero credit … will always be grateful to Imtiaz ali for taking her on a highway of life and moulding her into the actor she finally became …. SOTY is technically her launch but her true launch as an artist will always be highway…

Alia is such a pride and pleasure on a film set…. She had a ticking kind constantly questioning Rani and trying her best to make her strong and yet identifiable and likeable … again for that I take no credit that is her evolution as an artist! Was blessed to have her as Rani Chatterjee and I do hope her character keeps resonating …. Love you @aliaabhatt. 

He added, "Ranveer Singh! The irreplaceable force of nature…. The actor prepares and never comes in your way … he never ever let me know the extent he was prepping to play Rocky Randhawa… he planned his prep with my team , spent months in Delhi, hung out in west Delhi, met the West Delhi gram boys , worked on his dialect like an obsessed artist ! Kept improvising dialogues till it reached perfection for him … I saw this as a bystander, a filmaker in awe and was blown away by his process ( which initially can be daunting but when you see the dailies you’re sold and he’s won your heart) I feel like the perception of RS is so different from his labour and passion as a true artist! You see designer clothes om magazine covers I see a hungry actor only seeking love and validation from his audiences! ROCKY RANDHWA and RANVEER were irreplaceable! ( styled impeccably by @ekalakhani .

He concluded saying, "No one could have done what he did! Absolutely No one and I feel grateful for him and Alia ! The three of us also built a friendship for the ages as a trio! This is not just an appreciation post as a filmmaker but a post of gratitude to the universe that bought these blessed artists to play my leads! Karan Johar this side … signing off! @aliaabhatt @ranveersingh #rockyaurranikiipremkahaani."

In response to Karan's touching post, Ranveer, in his trademark affectionate style, commented with a playful "Sooooo cyuuuuuuuud yaaaar". Alia, on the other hand, opted for a simple yet expressive "K," complemented by a cascade of red heart emojis, encapsulating her sentiments of appreciation and affection.