Renowned Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar is all set to introduce fresh directorial talent through his production house, Dharma Productions. Taking to Instagram on Thursday, the celebrated producer shared a heartfelt note expressing his excitement for the upcoming film, while also highlighting the director’s dedication and perseverance over the years. However, he chose to keep the identity of the filmmaker under wraps.
Karan Johar on introducing new filmmaker
Reflecting on his journey as a producer, Karan Johar recalled stepping into Dharma Productions in 2003 with 'Kal Ho Naa Ho', emphasizing his commitment to nurturing storytellers. “When I began producing films (once I stepped into Dharma as an active part of the company), in 2003 with Kal Ho Naa Ho – the idea was to empower filmmakers and storytellers... to pay it forward. We got it right... we got it wrong but the intent was always to put out stories and films we believed in. The motive was only either entertain, seek acclaim or to simply have fun at the movies,” he wrote.
Johar further revealed that this new project marks the 24th debutant director introduced by Dharma Productions. “(Trivia for trollers: 90% of them are 'outsiders'),” he quipped, addressing the industry's ongoing conversation about nepotism.
Karan praises the new director
Praising the filmmaker’s dedication, Johar shared that they had spent nearly half a decade working on the project, navigating pandemic-related delays and various unforeseen hurdles. “The director did nothing else but put his head down and work relentlessly on his film, combating pandemic delays and other unforeseen circumstances. I am inspired by the team of actors and technicians who gave the film and the team so much consistent support and love,” he added.
While commercial success remains unpredictable, Johar expressed his deep admiration for the project. “One can never predict commercial success BUT what I can say with all my heart is that this film is one of Dharma's proudest films. I say this as a filmmaker and an audience. I pray for the team that the audience is coloured in the colour of their passion. See you at the movies,” he concluded.
Speculation surrounding the film
Though Karan Johar did not disclose the film’s title, the use of a saffron background in his Instagram post has sparked speculation that the project could be 'Kesari Chapter 2', directed by debutant filmmaker Karan Singh Tyagi. Tyagi, known for his work as a writer on the Prime Video series 'Bandish Bandits' is rumoured to be making his directorial debut with this film.