Filmmaker Karan Johar, often the target of trolls, has always confronted negativity head-on. Recently, he opened up about his childhood struggles, sharing how he felt “different from other boys”.

Speaking with astrologer-spiritual coach Dr Jai Madaan on her YouTube channel, Johar recalled, “Mujhe laga main doosre ladkon ki tarah nahin hoon,” revealing that he never fit into the typical, ‘masculine’ mould and patterns of boyhood — be it “interests, style or sports”.

He candidly discussed being called “pansy”, which deeply disturbed him. “This particular comment felt like a verbal attack on my core being, my personality and I couldn’t express main iss kism ka ladka hoon, meri choices or interests are different from other boys. But I feel jab woh mujhe attack karte thhe, it used to make me question my very being,” Johar admitted.

During this period, he sought solace in food, gaining weight between ages 7 and 9. However, he eventually embraced his uniqueness, finding strength in self-acceptance. “At 52, I’ve never regretted the way I’ve lived or the work I’ve pursued. Everything I do is for me, unapologetically. I just want to live my truth,” Johar said.