Karan Johar breaks down Bollywood facade: ‘Yes, box office numbers are fabricated’ and ‘We are all big liars’ on movie review

October 29, 2024: Bollywood mogul Karan Johar revealed some of the industry’s best-kept secrets in a rare display of unfiltered honesty at the recent Indian Express Adda conference . Known for his captivating work and strong connections, Johar has not hesitated to expose the dark side of Bollywood, including fabricated box office numbers, biased casting practices and insincere film endorsements by celebrities.

Also read: Karan Johar responds to backlash after selling 50% of Dharma production to Adar Poonawalla’s Serene Productions

When asked whether the box office figures were manipulated, Johar responded candidly: “Yes, the numbers are fabricated, that’s true.” This statement confirmed what many industry insiders and film critics had long suspected. The film industry often inflates box office figures to create the illusion of success. The revelation casts doubt on the credibility of reported film revenues and exposed a key part of Bollywood’s carefully curated public image.

Also read: Divya Khossla Kumar hits back at Karan Johar over Jigra Row incident, says Alia Bhatt’s film plagiarized her work

The talk then turned to casting in Bollywood and Johar busted the myth of talent-driven casting. “Box office, popularity and talent are always equal,” he said, emphasizing that star influence often trumps skill in casting decisions. Looking back on his journey, he admitted, “I’m pretty sure there are more talented people and filmmakers than me, but I’m honored and I’m grateful for that.” Johar’s words reveal the role of privilege and connections , showing that the doors of Bollywood are not open equally to all, but to a select few.

Also read: Divya Khossla Kumar accuses Alia Bhatt of misleading box office numbers, sparks feud with Karan Johar

Perhaps the most explosive moment was when Johar discussed the honesty of movie reviews shared by Bollywood stars. When asked if the comments were true, he responded bluntly: “No, we’re all liars. We’re all big liars.” The shocking admission reveals how the film industry uses celebrities to bolster a film’s reputation and mislead the audience.

The revelations come at a sensitive time for Johar, especially his latest film JigraStarring Alia Bhatt, it was criticized for allegedly bloating the box office. Meanwhile, news of Adar Poonawalla’s Serene Productions acquiring 50 per cent stake in Johar’s Dharma Productions for a whopping Rs 1,000 crore also coincides with the news, a move that has attracted close attention considering Dharma’s recent financial performance.

Despite falling revenue and net profit – Dharma’s revenue halved from Rs 1,040 crore in FY23 to Rs 5,123 crore in FY24 – Johar’s studio is valued at Rs 2,000 crore. Analysts expressed concern about the valuation, noting that Dharma’s reliance on risky investments leaves it vulnerable to volatility. The stark disparity between the brand’s image and financial health highlights the risks posed by Bollywood’s glossy exterior.

At a time when audiences are becoming increasingly discerning and aware, Johar’s candid admission lifts the curtain on Bollywood’s closely guarded secrets, leaving fans questioning what else the industry is hiding.