In a heartfelt revelation that has touched many, renowned Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar recently shared insights into the questions his young children, Yash and Roohi, have been asking about their mother. This candid discussion has not only given fans a glimpse into Johar’s personal life but has also sparked important conversations about surrogacy, single parenthood, and the evolving concept of family in modern India.
The Journey to Parenthood
Karan Johar, one of India’s most successful and influential filmmakers, became a father to twins Yash and Roohi through surrogacy in 2017. His decision to embrace single parenthood was met with widespread support and admiration, challenging traditional notions of family in Indian society.
In a recent interview, Karan Johar opened up about the joys and challenges of raising his children, now 6 years old. “Becoming a father has been the most rewarding experience of my life,” Johar shared. “It’s changed me in ways I never thought possible.”
Curious Minds: The Questions Begin
As Yash and Roohi grow older, their natural curiosity about their origins has begun to surface. Karan Johar revealed that the twins have started asking questions about their mother, prompting him to navigate these sensitive conversations with care and honesty.
“The first time they asked about their mother, I was taken aback,” Karan Johar admitted. “But I’ve always believed in being truthful with my children, so I knew I had to address their questions head-on.”
The filmmaker shared that the twins’ inquiries began innocently enough, with questions like “Do we have a mommy?” and “Why don’t we live with our mommy like some of our friends do?” These simple yet profound questions have led to ongoing discussions about family, love, and the different ways people can become parents.
Approaching the Topic with Honesty and Sensitivity
Karan Johar emphasized the importance of age-appropriate honesty when discussing the topic with his children. “I’ve tried to explain things in a way they can understand at their age,” he said. “I tell them that they were born from the heart and that families can look different for different people.”
The director has been careful to balance satisfying his children’s curiosity with respecting the privacy of the surrogate mother. “I’ve explained that a very kind lady helped bring them into this world, but that I’m both their father and mother,” Johar shared.
He also highlighted the role of his mother, Hiroo Karan Johar, in the children’s lives. “My mom plays a crucial role in their upbringing. They have a strong maternal figure in her, which I believe is essential for their emotional development.”
The Impact of Media and Society
As public figures, Karan Johar and his family are often in the spotlight. The filmmaker acknowledged the additional challenges this brings when addressing personal matters with his children.
“I’m aware that as they grow older, they might come across information or opinions about our family in the media,”Karan Johar said. “That’s why I believe in creating an open dialogue from an early age, so they feel comfortable coming to me with any questions or concerns.”
Johar also touched upon the societal impact of his decision to become a single father through surrogacy. “I hope that by sharing our story, we can contribute to a more inclusive understanding of what makes a family,” he stated.
Navigating Gender Roles and Stereotypes
One interesting aspect Johar highlighted was his children’s perception of gender roles within the family. “Sometimes Yash will ask why he doesn’t have a dad like some of his friends, while Roohi wonders about not having a mom,” Johar shared. “It’s been an opportunity to teach them that families come in all shapes and sizes, and that love is what truly defines a family.”
The filmmaker has been consciously working to break down gender stereotypes in his parenting approach. “I play both traditionally maternal and paternal roles,” he explained. “I want my children to understand that there’s no fixed blueprint for how a parent should behave based on their gender.”
The Support System: Friends and Family
Johar emphasized the importance of his support system in raising Yash and Roohi. “I’m fortunate to have amazing friends and family who play active roles in my children’s lives,” he said. “It truly takes a village, and I’m grateful for the love and support we receive.”
He specifically mentioned close friends from the film industry who have become like aunts and uncles to the twins. “People like Gauri Khan, Alia Bhatt, and Ranveer Singh have been incredible. They offer different perspectives and experiences that enrich my children’s lives.”
Looking to the Future: Preparing for Tougher Questions
As Yash and Roohi grow older, Johar acknowledges that their questions will likely become more complex. “I’m preparing myself for more detailed inquiries as they mature,” he said. “My goal is to always provide them with honest, loving answers that help them understand their unique story.”
The filmmaker also expressed his commitment to fostering an environment where his children feel secure in their identity. “I want them to be proud of who they are and how they came into this world,” Johar stated. “Their story is one of love, choice, and the desire to create a family, and I hope they’ll always see it that way.”
A Message of Love and Acceptance
Karan Johar’s openness about his children’s curiosity has resonated with many, sparking important discussions about diverse family structures in India. His approach to parenting and his willingness to share his experiences have been praised by fans and fellow celebrities alike.
“At the end of the day, what matters most is the love we have for each other,” Johar concluded. “I hope that by sharing our journey, we can contribute to a more accepting and understanding society where all families, regardless of their composition, are celebrated.”
As Yash and Roohi continue to grow and learn about their unique family story, Karan Johar’s honest and loving approach serves as an inspiration to many. His journey as a single father navigating complex conversations with his children highlights the evolving nature of families in modern India and the universal themes of love, honesty, and acceptance that underpin all parent-child relationships.
Through his candid revelations, Johar not only provides insight into his personal life but also contributes to broader societal discussions about surrogacy, single parenthood, and the true meaning of family in the 21st century.
