Karan Johar says working with “terrifying” Saroj Khan on DDLJ “traumatised” him
Filmmaker Karan Johar has opened up about a challenging experience early in his career, recalling how legendary choreographer Saroj Khan reacted to his involvement during the making of Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ). In a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter India, Johar described the encounter as frightening and emotionally taxing, even though he ultimately acknowledged Saroj Khan’s talent. Johar began his career in the film industry as a costume assistant on the 1995 romantic drama, working under Aditya Chopra and alongside designer Manish Malhotra. Years later, he reflected on the intensity he experienced on set, particularly during the filming of the song ‘Mehndi Laga Ke Rakhna.’ “At that time, the costume dada was my biggest ally… Manish would come in the morning, hand over the clothes, and leave. I was the costume assistant, and Pam aunty was deeply involved in the process,” Johar recalled, referring to Pamela Chopra’s hands-on role with costumes. Trouble emerged when ...