Karan Johar calls out Sandeep Reddy Vanga while addressing the significance of gender politics in films

In the ever-evolving landscape of Bollywood, the question of gender politics in films has taken center stage, especially in the wake of Sandeep Reddy Vanga's "Animal," which has stirred social media with debates about misogyny and toxic masculinity. Karan Johar, a prominent figure in the industry, recently shed light on the significance of understanding gender politics in cinema during an interview with Film Companion.

At the Director's Adda for Film Companion, Karan Johar delved into the complexities of making films for the current generation, emphasizing the need to evolve within the ever-changing societal framework. Drawing parallels to his directorial journey, Karan candidly admitted to the incorrect gender politics portrayed in his earlier film, "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai," acknowledging the evolution in his understanding with time.

Highlighting the importance of learning from mistakes, Johar referenced his own journey, stating, "The gender politics of 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai,' I understand, is incorrect as opposed to the gender politics of 'Rocky Aur Rani.' Because now I have evolved, now I have understood."

Karan Johar drew attention to the influence of director Sandeep Reddy Vanga, known for his unapologetic stance on creative freedom. Vanga's advice, as shared by Johar, was to disregard external opinions and simply do what one feels is right.

He said, “Then you have someone like Sandeep Reddy Vanga telling you that why are you listening to anybody? Just do your own thing! I feel like you got to understand that with age comes evolution. Being a parent specifically, parent of twins, a boy and a girl... you understand how important gender politics are. You don't want to make those mistakes. You don't want to tell your children that you wear pink hoodie and you wear blue. Its okay for both of them to wear pink and blue. Also, you don't tell the boy that don't cry like a girl."

The director's introspective remarks extended to his latest venture, "Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani," where he aimed to address contemporary issues within the narrative, including cancel culture and, notably, a more nuanced approach to gender politics.

Meanwhile, "Animal," directed by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, continues to dominate the box office with its portrayal of a violent world entangled in the complexities of the relationship between Ranbir Kapoor's Ranvijay Singh and his father Balbir Singh, played by Anil Kapoor. The film, granted an A certificate by the CBFC, has been making waves since its release on December 1, captivating audiences with its intense narrative.