Karan Johar Reacts to Babil Khan’s Meltdown and Defends ‘Nadaaniyan’ Amid Industry Scrutiny
Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar has finally spoken out about two emotionally charged developments that sparked conversations across India’s film fraternity. The first was an emotional video posted by actor Babil Khan, son of the late Irrfan Khan, that quickly became viral before being deleted. The second is the widespread backlash against Johar’s recent production, Nadaaniyan. Speaking to Galatta Plus, Johar shared his perspective on both, encouraging empathy and meaningful dialogue within the industry.
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Babil Khan’s Viral Video: A Cry for Authenticity
Earlier in May 2025, Babil Khan shared a heartfelt and emotional video on social media that stunned both fans and the Bollywood community. In the video, which he later deleted, Babil appeared visibly distraught and criticized the film industry for its perceived insincerity and superficial praise. He mentioned names like Ananya Panday, Siddhant Chaturvedi, and Arjun Kapoor. The post quickly gained traction online, prompting a wave of reactions ranging from concern to criticism.
Soon after, Babil deactivated his Instagram account. His family released a statement to clarify the context. They explained that Babil’s video was not meant to attack or ridicule his peers. Rather, it was an attempt to honor those who, in his view, are working hard to bring authenticity back to Indian cinema. The statement named several celebrities he admired, including Shanaya Kapoor, Adarsh Gourav, and Arijit Singh, for their dedication to meaningful storytelling.
Karan Johar: A Parent First, Filmmaker Second
In his interview, Karan Johar revealed that Babil’s breakdown affected him deeply. “I felt as bad as people did as a parent when I saw Babil’s meltdown,” he said. “I felt terrible because I also have a son and a daughter.”
Johar emphasized the vulnerability of young actors navigating public pressure and expectations. He expressed a deep understanding of how overwhelming the spotlight can be, especially for someone like Babil, who is both talented and carrying the legacy of his legendary father. His compassionate tone showcased not only his perspective as a filmmaker but also as a father who relates to Babil’s emotional state.
This moment offered a rare glimpse into Johar’s more personal side, reminding audiences that behind the media persona is someone who understands pain, vulnerability, and the challenges of mental health in the public eye.
The ‘Nadaaniyan’ Controversy: When Criticism Turns Cruel
While discussing Babil’s experience, Johar also addressed another hot topic — the social media criticism surrounding his latest film Nadaaniyan. The Netflix film stars Ibrahim Ali Khan and Khushi Kapoor, both making their acting debuts. Despite high expectations, the film received negative reviews and became a lightning rod for debates on nepotism.
Critics accused the film of lacking depth, while social media users mocked the performances and questioned the casting. Johar didn’t shy away from responding. “Hating on Nadaaniyan became fashionable,” he said. “The more you hate on it, the more engagement you will get.”
He compared online bashing to digital violence, adding, “Words are equally violent. You’re not allowed physical violence in the real world, yet words cut deep.” This powerful remark called attention to the toxicity of cancel culture and the pressure it places on debutants.
Industry Reactions: A Divided Yet Supportive Bollywood
The film industry was quick to react to both incidents. Several actors, directors, and critics expressed solidarity with Babil. Filmmakers like Hansal Mehta and Vikram Bhatt voiced their support, highlighting the need for mental health awareness and more sensitive media narratives.
Bhatt went a step further and defended Ibrahim Ali Khan’s debut, stating that his performance was more natural and refined than Saif Ali Khan’s debut decades ago. “Ibrahim was at par with Saif, maybe even better,” he said. Many also came to Khushi Kapoor’s defense, praising her subtle expressions and screen presence.
The outpouring of support highlighted that while public criticism can be harsh, the industry still has a strong support system for those who show promise and sincerity.
Mental Health in Bollywood: A Silent Crisis
Babil Khan’s video has reignited a much-needed conversation about mental health in the entertainment world. The pressures of constant comparison, unrealistic expectations, and trolling can severely impact an artist’s emotional well-being. Johar acknowledged that while constructive criticism helps improve craft, personal attacks have no place in a respectful society.
His reaction underscores a broader industry-wide need for safe spaces where actors, especially newcomers, can speak without fear of ridicule. He urged content creators, critics, and fans alike to think before speaking, writing, or tweeting. As Karan Johar reacts to Babil Khan’s meltdown, his voice carries weight in sparking change.
Karan Johar’s response to Babil Khan’s emotional moment and the backlash against Nadaaniyan offers a crucial perspective. As someone who has mentored dozens of newcomers, Johar recognizes the fine line between constructive feedback and emotional harm.
His emphasis on kindness, empathy, and thoughtful criticism reminds us that while cinema is entertainment, it is also deeply personal to those who create it. In a time when every statement is dissected and every misstep amplified, a little compassion can go a long way.
