In an industry where image is often considered everything, Karan Johar has sparked a conversation about the authenticity of stardom and film promotion today. Speaking at a recent industry discussion organized by The Week, he expressed his concerns about the current state of publicity in Hindi cinema, specifically targeting the rise of paid PR.
Karan’s comments came in response to an attendee’s question about the recent method marketing strategies seen with actors like Janhvi Kapoor and Shanaya Kapoor for their respective projects. Rather than focusing on individuals, Karan took a broader stance on the trend. He said, “I think Bollywood should stop doing PR. It would be much better.” He said that the industry has reached a point where it is difficult to distinguish between genuine praise and manufactured buzz.
According to Karan, the shift toward paid publicity has made the environment transparently transactional. He mentioned, “They should let their achievements speak for themselves because, unfortunately, all of PR is now paid PR. So, if you want to say you are looking gorgeous, you just have to pay. If you have to say you are the best actor on planet earth, you have to pay.”
Karan expressed that this overdrive mode is counterproductive because it obscures real audience sentiment. He added, “You really can’t gauge what’s connecting and what’s not. Now, you look at everything like, ‘Are people really liking it or have they been paid to like it?’”
While Karan acknowledged that publicity and marketing remain vital professional categories, he urged for a return to merit-based recognition. He suggested, “I think we are in overdrive mode when it comes to PR. So whether they are doing method marketing or not is secondary; they should stop marketing themselves and let their work speak.”
On the work front, Karan’s Dharma Productions has a few big upcoming releases, including Chand Mera Dil starring Lakshya and Ananya Panday, and Naagzilla starring Kartik Aaryan. His last directorial, Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, was a box office success in 2023.
Also Read: Karan Johar Warns Fans of ’click Bait Headlines,’ Asks Media to Refrain From Twisting His Statements
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