Karan Johar Challenges Gender Stereotypes
Bollywood filmmaker and producer Karan Johar has said that boys should feel free to cry, wear pink and show softness — challenging long-held gender stereotypes in South Asian societies.
Speaking in a recent interview, Johar said the idea that boys must appear tough is completely wrong, as it restricts emotional expression and shapes damaging expectations from childhood.
He noted that almost half of his personality even today is shaped by his early memories, including the emotional struggles he faced growing up.
Raising Children Without Gender Labels
Johar, the father of twins Yash and Roohi, explained that he is raising his children in a way that frees them from traditional gender standards.
He said he avoids comments such as this is for girls or boys do not behave this way. Instead, he encourages the twins to explore their interests without fear of judgment.
The director added that modern parenting requires sensitivity. Many parents, he said, continue to pass down the same rigid norms they inherited, often unintentionally. Johar believes that challenging these norms is essential for children’s emotional health.
Childhood Trauma Continues to Shape His Fears
Reflecting on his own past, Johar spoke openly about the emotional trauma he experienced as a child. He said those memories still influence both his personal life and his parenting style.
According to him, he becomes anxious even over small issues involving his children.
He fears they might experience the same hurt he once felt.
For instance, he gets worried if he notices weight gain or sees them consuming unhealthy food. He admitted that he sometimes reacts strongly even when they eat too much sugar.
Such responses, he explained, come from his own history of struggling with weight and facing ridicule.
Mockery Over Weight Left Lasting Scars
Johar revealed that he faced teasing and mockery throughout school because of his weight. The jokes, taunts and comments left emotional wounds that have lasted well into adulthood.
He said those experiences created an inner sense of insecurity. Even today, he occasionally feels uncomfortable about his body, which sometimes affects how he chooses his clothes or how he appears in public.
However, Johar emphasised that he is gradually learning to accept himself.
With time, he said, he has realised that confidence comes from embracing one’s individuality rather than hiding it.
A Broader Conversation on Masculinity in India
Johar’s comments come at a time when discussions about gender roles, masculinity and mental health are gaining momentum in India. Reports by organisations such as UNICEF and local advocacy groups show that boys are often discouraged from expressing vulnerability, especially in traditional households.
Studies indicate that these restrictions can contribute to long-term issues, including anxiety, depression and difficulty communicating emotions in adulthood.
Johar’s public remarks therefore add a significant voice to the growing call for more open, emotionally supportive parenting.
Encouraging Emotional Freedom
In his interview, Johar urged parents to allow boys to cry without shame, wear any colour they like — including pink — and express gentleness without fear of judgment.
He said that emotional freedom helps children grow into confident adults who can manage their feelings in healthy ways.
For Johar, challenging stereotypes is not only a personal mission but also a way to ensure his children experience a kinder childhood than he did.
