Karan Johar celebrates the 19th anniversary of Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, reflecting on its bold storytelling, stellar cast, and lasting emotional significance despite its initial box-office failure.
Highlights:
- KJo shares behind-the-scenes photos and videos from the film’s shoot.
- Calls the film “bold, brave, and full of heart.”
- Featured Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, Abhishek Bachchan, and Rani Mukerji.
- Initially criticised for its extra-marital affair theme but now seen as ahead of its time.
- Album remains popular even today.
Bollywood director-producer Karan Johar is feeling nostalgic as his film Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (KANK) celebrates its 19th anniversary on August 11, 2025. Sharing behind-the-scenes pictures and videos on Instagram, KJo expressed how deeply connected he remains to the film. He wrote that some love stories “transcend time” and that KANK will always hold a special place in his heart.
Released in 2006, the film featured an ensemble cast including Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, Abhishek Bachchan, and Rani Mukerji. It told a bold story of an extra-marital affair, which faced criticism for its controversial theme and performed poorly at the box office. Critics then felt the film’s narrative could harm societal values.
However, over time, the film’s perspective proved ahead of its time, as urban India has since become more open to such themes. Though the film didn’t click commercially, its music album was widely appreciated. Karan Johar remains proud of the film’s bold storytelling and the talented team involved, cherishing it as one of his most meaningful works.
