How Working on Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge with Choreographer Saroj Khan Affected Karan Johar
Karan Johar, one of Bollywood’s most influential filmmakers, recently shared an honest reflection on his early work experience, particularly on the iconic 1995 romantic drama Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ). While the film went on to become one of Indian cinema’s most beloved hits, Johar has admitted that behind the scenes, the process was not always smooth. In particular, he spoke about how working with the legendary choreographer Saroj Khan was emotionally challenging and left him feeling “traumatised” at the time.
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, directed by Aditya Chopra and starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, is widely celebrated for its memorable songs and dances. Saroj Khan, one of Bollywood’s most revered choreographers, played a key role in creating many of the film’s signature sequences. For many in the industry, Khan was known not only for her creative brilliance but also for her strict work ethic and exacting standards.
Johar has described his experience on the set of DDLJ as part of his formative years in the film industry, a time when he was honing his understanding of filmmaking, performance and the demands of professional collaboration. Although he has immense respect for Saroj Khan’s talent and legacy, Johar has acknowledged that working under the pressure of strict choreography and high expectations was emotionally intense. He noted that at the time, the experience felt overwhelming, especially for someone still early in his career.
Reflecting on that period, Johar highlighted how demanding and precise choreography sessions required not just technical focus but emotional resilience. Bollywood dance sequences often involve long hours of repetition, exacting attention to posture, timing and expression, and the presence of a perfectionist choreographer can heighten the pressure. Johar’s description of feeling shaken by the experience sheds light on the often unseen emotional labour that goes into creating cinema that audiences later enjoy as seamless and joyous.
Despite the challenges, Johar’s reflection is also infused with respect for Saroj Khan’s artistry and influence. Her contribution to DDLJ helped shape the film’s enduring appeal, and her work has inspired generations of dancers and filmmakers. In recent years, many Bollywood personalities have paid tribute to her legacy, acknowledging her as a mentor and creative force in the industry.
Johar’s comments also resonate with broader conversations about emotional wellbeing on film sets. Filmmaking can be a high-pressure profession where creative expectations intersect with tight schedules, audience anticipation and personal aspirations. Industry veterans often speak about the importance of resilience, mutual respect and communication when navigating these complex environments.
For Johar, looking back at his early experiences reflects both personal growth and a deeper understanding of artistic collaboration. What may have felt overwhelming then now stands as part of a formative journey that shaped his sensibilities as a storyteller and collaborator. His candid remarks about DDLJ serve as a reminder that even iconic works are shaped by human challenges behind the camera.
Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, directed by Aditya Chopra and starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, is widely celebrated for its memorable songs and dances. Saroj Khan, one of Bollywood’s most revered choreographers, played a key role in creating many of the film’s signature sequences. For many in the industry, Khan was known not only for her creative brilliance but also for her strict work ethic and exacting standards.
Johar has described his experience on the set of DDLJ as part of his formative years in the film industry, a time when he was honing his understanding of filmmaking, performance and the demands of professional collaboration. Although he has immense respect for Saroj Khan’s talent and legacy, Johar has acknowledged that working under the pressure of strict choreography and high expectations was emotionally intense. He noted that at the time, the experience felt overwhelming, especially for someone still early in his career.
Reflecting on that period, Johar highlighted how demanding and precise choreography sessions required not just technical focus but emotional resilience. Bollywood dance sequences often involve long hours of repetition, exacting attention to posture, timing and expression, and the presence of a perfectionist choreographer can heighten the pressure. Johar’s description of feeling shaken by the experience sheds light on the often unseen emotional labour that goes into creating cinema that audiences later enjoy as seamless and joyous.
Despite the challenges, Johar’s reflection is also infused with respect for Saroj Khan’s artistry and influence. Her contribution to DDLJ helped shape the film’s enduring appeal, and her work has inspired generations of dancers and filmmakers. In recent years, many Bollywood personalities have paid tribute to her legacy, acknowledging her as a mentor and creative force in the industry.
Johar’s comments also resonate with broader conversations about emotional wellbeing on film sets. Filmmaking can be a high-pressure profession where creative expectations intersect with tight schedules, audience anticipation and personal aspirations. Industry veterans often speak about the importance of resilience, mutual respect and communication when navigating these complex environments.
For Johar, looking back at his early experiences reflects both personal growth and a deeper understanding of artistic collaboration. What may have felt overwhelming then now stands as part of a formative journey that shaped his sensibilities as a storyteller and collaborator. His candid remarks about DDLJ serve as a reminder that even iconic works are shaped by human challenges behind the camera.
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