‘I Only Feel Pity,’ Says KJo on Online Hate

Filmmaker Karan Johar has taken up the fight against online trolling, saying most trolls are “angry, angry and resentful” people who hide behind anonymity. Speaking at the International Movement of India for the United Nations (IIMUN), where he was recently announced as an Advisory Board member, Karan spoke out on criticism, trolling and public scrutiny.

He explained that real criticism comes from honest analysis and should be accepted and learned from. “When someone wants to like your movie but doesn’t, their criticism deserves respect,” he said, emphasizing the need to distinguish fair feedback from malicious attacks. “So the first thing is to analyze where the criticism is coming from.”

Karan added that most of the trolling stems from personal frustration. “Ninety-five percent of trolling comes from anonymous, unhappy people. Should I feel offended or pitiful? I choose compassion,” he said, adding that such negativity often targets his personal life and family.

Johar advised ignoring negativity that does not come from a well-intentioned place. “Follow your own path, feel sorry for that person, and at the same time be happy that you’re relevant enough to have people talking about you. To me, that’s the best way to move forward.”