Filmmaker Karan Johar has candidly shared his ongoing battle with body dysmorphia and mental health challenges, shedding light on the personal struggles that have shaped his life and career.
In This Article:
A Longstanding Battle with Body Dysmorphia
In a recent podcast with Raj Shamani, Johar revealed that he has been grappling with body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) for years. He described the condition as a persistent feeling of shame and discomfort with one’s own body, stating, “After 52 years, I finally feel confident. Otherwise, I do suffer from body dysmorphia. It’s when you feel ashamed of your own body” .
Johar admitted that even now, he struggles with self-image issues, often feeling awkward without clothes on and avoiding mirrors. He also mentioned that he wears oversized clothes to conceal his body and feels uncomfortable during intimate moments, preferring to keep the lights off .
Impact on Personal Life and Parenting
Johar’s body image issues have also affected his role as a parent. He expressed concerns about his son Yash’s weight, acknowledging that being overweight runs in his genes. In a moment of vulnerability, he accidentally fat-shamed Yash during a holiday, a remark he later regretted and apologized for .
Addressing Mental Health Challenges
Beyond body dysmorphia, Johar has faced other mental health challenges, including anxiety. He recounted experiencing his first panic attack in 2015-2016, which led him to seek therapy and make lifestyle changes. Although he managed to wean off medication, anxiety resurfaced this year, prompting him to address it promptly .
Johar emphasized the importance of understanding mental health issues and cautioned against offering simplistic solutions like “go for a drive” or “meet friends,” which can be dismissive of the complexities involved.
Weight Loss Journey and Health Commitments
In addition to managing mental health, Johar has undergone a significant physical transformation. He lost 17 kilograms over four months through a disciplined regimen of weight training and water workouts, combined with a strict diet of organic vegetables, proteins, and omega-3 enriched eggs .
Addressing rumors about using the diabetic medication Ozempic for weight loss, Johar clarified that his transformation was the result of healthy eating, regular exercise, and lifestyle changes, rather than medication .
Raising Awareness and Encouraging Open Dialogue
By sharing his experiences, Johar aims to raise awareness about body dysmorphia and mental health issues, encouraging others to seek help and engage in open conversations. He hopes that his openness will inspire others to address their own struggles and foster a more supportive environment for mental health discussions.
By – Sonali
