Filmmaker Karan Johar has often spoken candidly about the emotional highs and lows of making his directorial debut, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998). One of the most surprising revelations from that period is that Karan broke down and cried while working with Salman Khan for the first time—not due to conflict, but because of overwhelming pressure and self-doubt.
The Pressure of a First Film
At the time of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, Karan Johar was a first-time director, stepping into a massive project backed by Dharma Productions and featuring superstars like Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Rani Mukerji, and Salman Khan. Salman played the extended cameo of Aman Mehra, a role that later became one of the film’s emotional highlights.
However, directing a star of Salman Khan’s stature proved intimidating for Karan. He has admitted in interviews that he felt extremely underconfident, constantly questioning whether he was capable of handling such big actors on set.
Why Salman Khan Made Him Emotional
According to Karan Johar, the emotional moment occurred when Salman Khan arrived on set and treated him with unexpected warmth and respect. Instead of intimidating the young director, Salman was patient, cooperative, and encouraging. The contrast between Karan’s fear and Salman’s supportive behavior overwhelmed him emotionally.
Karan has shared that he felt the weight of expectations, responsibility, and his own insecurities all hit him at once, leading him to tear up. Salman reportedly reassured him, telling him to relax and trust his instincts as a director.
Salman Khan’s Professionalism on Set
Despite being a cameo appearance, Salman Khan reportedly gave his role complete sincerity. His performance in songs like Saajan Ji Ghar Aaye and the emotional climax added depth to the film. Industry insiders often credit Salman for elevating the film’s emotional core, even with limited screen time.
Karan Johar has repeatedly acknowledged that Salman’s professionalism during Kuch Kuch Hota Hai left a lasting impression on him and helped boost his confidence as a filmmaker.
A Defining Learning Moment
Looking back, Karan Johar describes that incident as a turning point in his career. What began as a moment of vulnerability became a lesson in humility and growth. The film went on to become a massive blockbuster and a cult classic, launching Karan Johar as one of Bollywood’s most successful directors.
The emotional episode also highlights a lesser-seen side of Salman Khan—one where his off-screen empathy played a crucial role in shaping a young director’s journey.
