Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar, known for his larger-than-life personality, vibrant films, and charismatic presence on television and social media, recently opened up about a more vulnerable and personal side of himself: his childhood trauma and its lasting impact on his parenting style. In a candid conversation with tennis star Sania Mirza on her podcast Serving It Up with Sania, Karan reflected on his experiences of being bullied as a child due to his weight and how those experiences continue to shape his perspective as a parent to his twins, Yash and Roohi.

Karan Johar’s childhood was not without challenges. He has openly spoken about being overweight during his early years and the ridicule and bullying that accompanied it. These formative experiences, he revealed, left deep emotional scars, shaping the way he views societal expectations, personal appearance, and self-esteem. During the podcast, Karan discussed how these experiences have influenced the way he raises his children, particularly in a world where social media amplifies scrutiny and peer pressure.

Speaking about the pressures children face today, Karan highlighted the harsh realities of social media, where every detail is analyzed, and appearances are often judged. “Children now experience anxiety about not looking ‘hot enough’ or not having enough followers,” he explained. Reflecting on his own upbringing, Karan said that although he was a plus-size child, he was still allowed happiness and freedom. However, he worries that today’s children, especially those who are “physically different,” may not have the same resilience against criticism and judgment.

Karan candidly admitted that his own childhood scars contribute to what he described as a sense of paranoia regarding his children’s health and well-being. “I want to tell you that 50% of me is so scarred by my childhood that I get paranoid that my kids would gain weight. I carry childhood trauma. I keep saying ‘Don’t eat sugar,’” he shared. At the same time, he acknowledged a tension within himself: while part of him wants to protect his children, another part seeks to liberate them from restrictive thoughts or anxieties related to their bodies.

His concern extends beyond diet to physical activity and daily routines. “I get angry if they miss or bunk a football class because they have too many classes in school,” Karan admitted. Recalling his own experiences of being discouraged from playing sports—he was once told, “play dabba gul because football is not for you”—Karan emphasized how he wants his children to have opportunities he was denied. This conflict between his protective instincts and his desire for freedom forms the crux of his parenting philosophy.

Karan Johar’s approach to parenting is also shaped by a keen awareness of the impact of social interactions and peer judgment. He expressed concern about the potential embarrassment children might face online or at school due to videos, comments, or comparisons. “I have changed my clothing so they don’t have to be afraid of what people will say at school,” he said. He explained that while he has always been a maximalist in his personal style and outlook, parenthood has encouraged him to adjust his habits to safeguard his children’s emotional well-being.

Underlying all these adjustments is a desire to instill in Yash and Roohi a sense of acceptance and empathy. Karan said, “I want my kids to be accepting of everything and everyone.” His parenting philosophy reflects an understanding that in a world filled with judgment—especially amplified by online platforms—children need to cultivate resilience, kindness, and self-assurance. By shaping their environment and routines, he hopes to equip them with the tools to navigate these challenges with confidence.

Karan Johar’s journey into parenthood began in February 2017, when he welcomed twins through surrogacy. He named them Yash and Roohi, drawing inspiration from his own parents: Yash Johar and Hiroo Johar. The names are a personal tribute, with Roohi being a creative rearrangement of “Hiroo.” Since then, Karan has often shared glimpses of his life with his twins, offering fans a window into the joys, challenges, and milestones of raising children in a highly publicized world. Despite his larger-than-life celebrity persona, these insights reveal the vulnerability, care, and thoughtfulness that define his approach to family life.

In addition to his reflections on parenting, Karan Johar also touched upon his concern for the psychological and emotional preparedness of children in today’s fast-paced, image-conscious society. He acknowledged the pressures of school, extracurricular activities, and social media, recognizing that children today are exposed to a unique set of challenges that previous generations may not have faced. By balancing protective instincts with encouragement for independence, Karan seeks to create a nurturing yet resilient environment for Yash and Roohi.

Beyond his role as a parent, Karan Johar continues to shape the landscape of Bollywood through his work as a filmmaker and producer. His upcoming production, Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri, directed by Sameer Vidwans, stars Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday and is scheduled to release in cinemas on December 25, 2025. The film is set to clash at the box office with Alia Bhatt and Sharvari’s YRF spy-universe film, Alpha, highlighting Karan’s continued engagement with mainstream cinema while balancing the responsibilities of parenthood.

Karan Johar’s candid reflections on his own childhood and its impact on his parenting provide a rare glimpse into the emotional complexities behind one of Bollywood’s most influential figures. By sharing his vulnerabilities, he not only normalizes conversations about childhood trauma and body image but also demonstrates a deep commitment to the well-being of his children. His approach underscores the delicate balance between protection and freedom, discipline and understanding, and personal experience and parental guidance.

In conclusion, Karan Johar’s interview with Sania Mirza sheds light on the ways in which personal history shapes parenting philosophy. From concerns about weight and social pressures to managing screen time and physical activity, Karan’s parenting choices are informed by a desire to ensure that Yash and Roohi grow up with confidence, resilience, and empathy. His story resonates with parents worldwide who navigate the tension between protecting their children and allowing them the freedom to experience the world. Through candid self-reflection, Karan Johar demonstrates that even public figures, known for their glamour and success, wrestle with the universal challenges of parenthood, striving to provide love, guidance, and a safe space for the next generation.

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