Bollywood fans still gush over one photograph that brought together some of the industry’s brightest stars in an unexpected yet magical moment. Back in 2018, filmmaker Karan Johar posted a picture on his official Instagram that featured Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, Shah Rukh Khan, Aamir Khan, and himself—all in one frame. The caption read, “The biggest BLOCKBUSTER ever!!!!!❤️😘😘😘😘,” perfectly capturing the excitement fans felt seeing this unprecedented gathering.

Seven years later, in a candid conversation with former tennis star Sania Mirza on her podcast Serving It Up With Sania, Karan Johar revealed the story behind the picture and why it became an instant viral sensation.

The Birthday That Brought Everyone Together

Karan Johar explained that the gathering was for Ranbir Kapoor’s 36th birthday. “This was Ranbir’s birthday, right before the pandemic,” KJo shared. He added that the day carried an emotional weight as well, due to his father Rishi Kapoor’s health struggles at the time. The legendary actor had been diagnosed with leukemia in 2018 and sadly passed away two years later in 2020.

Karan recalled, “It was an emotional day, and then we just landed up to wish him. Everybody whom we called, they just came. And we took this picture—it went fully viral.” He emphasized the rarity of such a get-together, noting that it brought together actors of varying generations, with different schedules and projects, in one frame. “Just look at the cast it has. It is a mega cast. I don’t think actors like this can ever come together. I think after Ellen DeGeneres’ Oscar selfie, this is not a selfie, but it is one for the books,” he said.

A Moment Frozen in Time

The photograph was more than just a birthday memento; it symbolized camaraderie, respect, and the rare alignment of some of Bollywood’s biggest stars. For fans, it was a dream come true—seeing a frame that included the “three Khans,” the Kapoor legacy, and the newest generation of stars like Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor. The image has since become iconic, frequently resurfacing on social media as a reminder of what happens when Bollywood legends and the next generation of superstars share a rare moment together.

Interestingly, the picture also predated major personal milestones for several actors. A month and a half after the photograph, Ranveer Singh and Deepika Padukone tied the knot in a lavish ceremony in Lake Como, Italy, marking one of Bollywood’s most talked-about celebrity weddings. Meanwhile, Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor married in April 2022, further solidifying their status as one of the industry’s most beloved couples.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Stars

Even as fans reminisce about the 2018 snapshot, excitement continues to build for upcoming projects featuring the same actors. Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone are reuniting on-screen for the much-anticipated film King, while Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor are set to appear together in Love & War. For Karan Johar, who has played a pivotal role in shaping Bollywood’s modern star culture, moments like this photograph serve as both nostalgia and a reminder of the industry’s enduring magic.

Why the Pic Resonated With Fans

The photograph’s impact lies not just in the presence of these superstars but also in the emotions behind the moment. A birthday, a personal struggle, and the coming together of diverse actors for a casual yet intimate snapshot created a perfect blend of authenticity and star power. Fans loved it because it offered a glimpse behind the glamour—a fleeting, real moment of connection between icons of the industry.

Karan Johar’s reflection seven years later adds another layer to the story, reminding us of the personal and professional bonds that tie Bollywood together. “It was emotional, fun, and rare—all in one,” KJo summarized. And indeed, for fans, it remains one of the most iconic Bollywood photos ever captured.