We’ve come to expect witty one-liners and wisecracks from Karan Johar. But in the latest season of Koffee With Karan, the filmmaker has shown a more emotional and vulnerable side to him. He continued in the same vein as he shot for the grand finale of India’s Got Talent 8 earlier this week. As part of the episode, the six finalists celebrated Johar’s 25 years in cinema, through their acts—a gesture that left him moved.

The filmmaker, who recently enjoyed a smash hit in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, reflected on his successful run in the industry, attributing it to his late producer-father Yash Johar’s goodwill.

“When my father entered the industry, he received love and respect, and made many films, but he didn’t get the success he should have received. When my first film [Kuch Kuch Hota Hai] was released, I felt that the entire industry prayed that it work for my father’s sake. It has been 19 years since he left us. Whatever I have achieved, it’s all because of his goodwill and blessings. Whenever I am going through tough times, I feel that he gives me strength.”

Calling mother Hiroo Johar “a strong presence” in his life, the filmmaker revealed that she watches India’s Got Talent for judge Kirron Kher. “Whenever I sit with my mother to watch the show, she always notices the sarees Kirron-ji wears. It drives me crazy when she demands the exact jewellery that Kirron-ji is wearing in the episode.”