Karan Johar attended the Jaipur Literature Festival the other day where he spoke about his biography, An Unsuitable Boy. We told you earlier how he stated that Shah Rukh, Gauri Khan & their three children will always be family to him, despite the highs and lows in their relationship. But the most heartwarming part of his session was when he spoke about his difficult childhood.
I hated the word ‘Pansy’ and I was called that as a child. I was effeminate as a child and I used to have sleepless nights over the fact that I am different from other children.
But he also spoke at length about his supportive parents –
Even when I weighed 150 kgs, my mother said that I was the best looking child in the world and my father told me that once I lost a little puppy fat, I can be a hero in Hindi films.
While speaking about the negative and cliched portrayal of homosexuals in Bollywood movies, here’s what he had to say –
Whether it’s Kal Ho Na Ho or Dostana, I discussed the issue in the mainstream. I received so many letters from youngsters saying that my movies helped their parents identify their sexuality. Now there are so many films on LGBT and I am proud that I started it.
And finally, Karan opened up about the struggles he and his family have had while he was a child –
When my father had a few flop movies, we had to sell our jewellery and house. He was not invited for launch parties and it was a terrible time.
Can’t wait to read his book!