When Rani Mukerji looks back at her career-defining role in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998), what shines just as brightly as her character Tina is her first impression of the film’s young debut director, Karan Johar.
In a recent interview with ANI, Rani revealed that she had been bowled over by Karan’s conviction and energy from the very first script narration. “Karan was so clear with his narration. I found Karan to be an honest and clear-headed filmmaker because the way he came and narrated the subject to me was so passionate. While he was narrating, I knew somewhere that Karan was going to make a mark in the industry because he was just so clear,” she recalled warmly.
Still, the actress admitted that despite his enthusiasm, she had her doubts. At the time, Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol were already celebrated as one of Bollywood’s most iconic screen pairs following Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge.
Would her character have space to shine alongside them? She remembered asking Karan: “Are you sure you want me to do this part?”
His now-famous reply was simple and reassuring: “Leave it to me.”
The line not only convinced Rani but also found its way into the film as Tina’s unforgettable catchphrase — “Leave it to Tina.”
Looking back on their subsequent work together, Rani characterised Karan as a director who encourages his actors to give their best performances. “Karan is also very demanding; he knows what he wants. He’s also very like he knows what he wants from his actors. Until the time he gets his shot, he will keep on doing so,” she explained.
A decades-long creative collaboration has been established through their collaboration on films such as Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna and the anthology Bombay Talkies.
Karan and Rani have stayed close friends more than coworkers. Their relationship has persisted outside of the movie set, as the actress and director are frequently seen together to commemorate significant occasions.
Most recently, they were at the National Awards ceremony, where President Droupadi Murmu recognised Rani for her outstanding performance in Mrs. Chatterjee vs. Norway, and then again at the 2025 Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.
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