Karan Johar remembers late father Yash Johar on birthday

Karan Johar has paid a heartfelt tribute to his late father, legendary Indian film producer Yash Johar, on what would have been his birthday, looking back on cherished memories and the lessons he carried with him throughout his life.

On September 6, the Ae Dil Hai Mushkil director took to Instagram to remember his father with an emotional note. Rather than simply celebrating his birthday, Karan reflected on the special moments they shared and recalled the humour, warmth and honesty that made Yash such an important figure in his life.

Among the memories Karan shared was a hilarious moment that took place following the release of his directorial debut, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai. The film became a major success and marked a turning point in Karan’s career, giving him the confidence to celebrate his achievement in his own way.

Karan recalled deciding to purchase his first designer jacket after the film’s success. He proudly walked into a Burberry store and bought the only jacket that fit him. Excited about his new purchase, he returned home convinced that he looked stylish.

However, his father had a very different opinion.

Karan remembered proudly showing off the jacket to Yash, who looked at him with confusion and asked what he was wearing. Feeling proud of his expensive new acquisition, Karan told his father that it was Burberry.

Yash then delivered what Karan described as one of his most savage yet funniest insults.

Instead of being impressed by the designer label, Yash jokingly told his son that it was not Burberry but “bohat buri hai,” turning the famous brand name into a playful Hindi phrase meaning “very bad.”

The filmmaker admitted that the comment left him shattered at the time, but he could not help laughing at his father’s quick wit. For Karan, the incident perfectly captured Yash’s personality.

“That was my father – rooted, basic and very very funny,” Karan recalled, highlighting the simplicity and humour that remained at the heart of their relationship despite Yash’s highly successful career in the film industry.

Karan’s tribute also carried a much more emotional tone as he remembered his father’s final days. He reflected on the painful moments when Yash was on a ventilator and nearing the end of his life. The memory remains deeply personal for Karan, who has often spoken about the profound impact his father had on both his personal life and professional journey.

Yash Johar was one of the most respected producers in Indian cinema and played an influential role in shaping some of Bollywood’s most memorable films. Through his production house Dharma Productions, he was associated with several successful and beloved movies that continue to hold a special place in the hearts of audiences.

His notable productions included Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Kal Ho Naa Ho, Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, Duplicate and Agneepath, among several other acclaimed projects.

For Karan, however, Yash Johar was more than a celebrated filmmaker or producer. He was his father, mentor and one of the most important influences in his life.

Through his birthday tribute, Karan once again showed that while his father may no longer be physically present, the memories, jokes and values they shared continue to live on. His emotional recollections offered fans a glimpse into the personal bond between the father and son and the enduring legacy Yash Johar left behind.