Filmmaker Karan Johar has often spoken about the highs and lows of his life in the public eye. But few moments have affected him as deeply as the time he faced a cruel comment that made him question everything about his journey as a single parent.
In a recent episode of We The Women Asia, hosted by Barkha Dutt, Karan shared the painful memory that led him to tears.
The Comment That Broke Karan Johar
During the conversation, Karan recalled reading a comment online that struck at the heart of his parenting choices.
“When they said, ‘Do you realise that you deprived your children of a mother?’, it broke my heart,” he confessed.
The comment arrived years after Karan decided to have children via surrogacy. At the time, his decision drew both praise and scorn. However, this particular remark stood out for its harshness.
“For the first time, I questioned my decision of being a single parent,” he said.
A Moment of Vulnerability
Karan shared that he often tells his children, Yash and Roohi, “You came from Dada’s heart.” But as they grew older, the biology behind their birth became clearer, adding another layer of complexity.
“That comment made me second-guess myself, and after I read it, I broke down in my room and just cried,” he revealed.
His raw honesty resonates with many single parents who grapple with societal judgments.
Navigating Online Hate
Karan Johar is no stranger to trolling. Over the years, he has weathered countless personal attacks. However, he admitted that being targeted for his parenting felt different.
“It felt like they were saying I wasn’t enough,” he shared.
Psychologists often warn that online hate can trigger self-doubt, anxiety, and depression. Karan’s experience highlights the importance of mental health support, especially for public figures under constant scrutiny.
Finding Strength
Despite the moment of despair, Karan Johar reaffirmed his commitment to his family.
“I believe very strongly that I can be more than a single parent. I can be their mother, their father, their everything,” he said.
This mindset echoes a growing global conversation about what makes a family. For Karan, love is the foundation—regardless of structure.
Tips for Dealing with Criticism
Experts suggest the following strategies for coping with online negativity:
- Limit exposure: Take breaks from social media.
- Seek support: Talk to friends or a therapist.
- Set boundaries: Block or report abusive users.
- Stay grounded: Remind yourself why you made your choices.
Karan’s story is a reminder that even the most confident people sometimes need reassurance.
The Impact of Representation
Many applauded Karan for speaking openly about single parenthood. In India, where traditional family setups dominate, his voice offers comfort to those carving their own paths.
“When a figure like Karan Johar shares his truth, it helps others feel seen and validated,” said Dr. Anuradha Sharma, a clinical psychologist.
Call to Action
If you or someone you know is experiencing distress due to online harassment, reach out for help. Organizations such as the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights and Cyber Crime Helpline can provide guidance.
Stay informed and support positive conversations about parenting and mental health. For more updates on Karan Johar single parent experiences and other inspiring stories, subscribe to our newsletter.