Filmmaker Karan Johar has reflected on the emotionally charged atmosphere on the sets of his 2006 film Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, recalling how the film’s complex themes deeply affected the cast during filming. The director shared these insights during a recent conversation with actor Rani Mukerji, who is currently promoting Mardaani 3.

Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna, which explored marital infidelity and emotional dissatisfaction, received mixed reactions upon release. The narrative, centered on Shah Rukh Khan’s character Dev and his relationship with Maya, played by Rani Mukerji, prompted intense debate among audiences, particularly over Dev’s decision to cheat on his wife Rhea, portrayed by Preity Zinta. According to Johar, the emotionally heavy subject matter extended beyond the script and into the actors’ personal responses on set.

Recalling moments with Preity Zinta, Johar said the actor found it difficult to separate herself from her character’s pain. He described how she became emotionally invested during certain scenes, prompting him to take her aside and remind her to view the situation from the perspective of her character, Rhea, rather than as herself.

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Johar also spoke about Abhishek Bachchan, noting that the actor was visibly affected while shooting an emotional sequence. He recalled a moment when Abhishek broke down on set, underscoring how strongly the film’s themes resonated with the cast. Johar added that these reactions were not isolated incidents but part of a broader emotional undercurrent during the shoot.

Reflecting on Rani Mukerji’s experience, Johar said he noticed her appearing quiet and sombre at times, suggesting that each actor was processing the story’s emotional beats internally. He described the filming process as “tumultuous,” explaining that the film dealt with difficult emotional realities that people experience but often avoid discussing openly.

Johar’s comments offer a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes challenges of bringing Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna to life, highlighting how its themes of relationships and emotional conflict left a lasting impact on those involved in the project.

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