Shah Rukh Khan has always been a favourite of Karan Johar's. For nearly three decades, the two have been friends and partners.
In a podcast 'We Are Yuvaa', Karan Johar opened up on his childhood trauma, sexuality and his confidant Shah Rukh Khan.
Confessing that the actor became his go-to person whenever he wanted to discuss any issues or struggles related to his sexuality, Karan Johar said, "I think the first person that made me feel that I was okay was Shah Rukh Khan. He has been and brought up in a very progressive environment, he comes from theatre, he has worked with all kinds of people."
"My parents won't be able to understand things, I felt the feminine side I had that was coming out so strongly, was only met with laughter or being made fun of," shared KJo.
Karan said: "When I grew older, people around me were quiet, there chitter chatter around, maybe the way I walked, spoke etc. SRK was the first man who didn't make me feel lesser. He made me feel like an equal. He accepted what in those days was considered being a pansy, feminine, or walking funny. He was just so cool about everything."
"He had a lot of open chats with me. Even when I had to say the biggest thing about my personality and sexuality, I spoke to him first. Because I felt like he would be that one influence and sense of support. I feel like Indian cinema has painted the most flawed interpretations of what a man should be," said Karan on the podcast.
“It's what he didn't say. It's what he didn't bring up, it's what he normalised. When I sat funny, walked funny, did or said campy things, he laughed, hung out with me, and chatted with me. And that's all that matters."
On his childhood trauma, Karan shared: "I haven't learnt to love myself as much as possibly the world would imagine that I do. I have many body issues even now. When I stepped into a swimming pool, it had to be in private surroundings. I am not comfortable with my body even now. What I am comfortable is - with myself."
Karan Johar and SRK first worked in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and then went on to do films like Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, and My Name is Khan later.
On the work front, Karan Johar last directed Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani starring Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhatt. He is also gearing up for the premiere of the eighth season of Koffee with Karan which hits Disney+ Hotstar on October 26.
