Karan Johar’s films have raised the bar for glamour and style in Bollywood like never before.
Karan Johar, the renowned filmmaker and head of the iconic Dharma Productions, turns 53 today. A recipient of the Padma Shri, Johar has redefined the notions of glamour and spectacle in Bollywood through his cinematic vision. From his sensational debut ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ to the visually stunning ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani’, he has played a significant role in shaping contemporary Hindi cinema. Known for his grand sets, striking costumes, and amazing cinematography, Johar's films are a visual feast. Let’s take a look at some of KJo’s films that elevated Bollywood’s glitz, glamour, and visual brilliance in storytelling.
This film is remembered for everything it brought to the screen — truly a timeless classic. ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham…’ boasted a stellar ensemble cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Hrithik Roshan, and Kareena Kapoor, with a special appearance by Rani Mukerji. Known for its opulent scale, stylish costumes, and visual appeal, the movie exuded a sense of grandeur that captivated audiences. Promoted with the heartfelt tagline “It’s All About Loving Your Parents”, the film masterfully blended traditional family values with sleek, contemporary filmmaking, setting a benchmark for Bollywood’s visual and emotional storytelling.
Karan Johar’s debut film, ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’, clearly showed his love for visual style and flair. For kids growing up in the 90s, the film’s hairbands, friendship bands, and the famous ‘cool’ necklace became must-have fashion items. With this movie, Dharma Productions saw a major visual upgrade after Yash Johar, influencing not just their own films but Bollywood as a whole. The film was a hit with critics and audiences alike, winning several awards and becoming a big box office success.
‘Student of the Year’, featuring debutantes Sidharth Malhotra, Varun Dhawan, and Alia Bhatt, brought to life every college fresher's dream. From the stunning campus to the stylish outfits, the film was a visual treat. Shanaya’s (Alia Bhatt) wardrobe became every college-going girl’s fashion inspiration, while Varun and Sidharth set the standard for cool and effortless style — both in their casual campus looks and traditional outfits.
This rom-com perfectly blends Ranveer Singh’s spot-on comic timing with Alia Bhatt’s vibrant energy. Add to that the grand Durga Puja sets and iconic shooting locations, and the film becomes a visual spectacle. And the costumes? From Ranveer Singh a.k.a Rocky’s loud, flashy gym-bro outfits to Alia Bhatt a.k.a Rani’s bold and elegant sarees, every look made a statement. Karan Johar not only reinvented the classic chiffon saree but also used fashion to highlight Rocky’s bold personality and Rani’s grace.
With Manish Malhotra as the costume designer, ‘Kal Ho Naa Ho’ set several fashion trends — from off-shoulder tops and coordinated couple outfits to sequinned and heavily printed traditional wear. And who can forget the iconic “Nice dress! Nice tie” line that still pops into our heads whenever we see someone in red? Starring Shah Rukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan, and Preity Zinta, along with Jaya Bachchan, Sushma Seth, Reema Lagoo, Lillete Dubey, and Delnaaz Irani in key supporting roles, the film was another big commercial success for Karan Johar.
