Box Office Has No Rules Says Karan Johar

Filmmaker Karan Johar, speaking at the Mirai – Super Yodha Tour press conference in Mumbai, shared candid insights about the unpredictability of the box office. Joined by actor Teja Sajja, director Karthik Gattamneni, and producer Vishwa Prasad, the event aimed to build anticipation for the upcoming fantasy epic Mirai, releasing on 12th September 2025.

When asked about the recent trend of newcomer-led films outperforming those with established stars, Johar responded with perspective and pragmatism. “Every film has its own destiny and story,” he said. “Sometimes big-star movies work wonders, sometimes fresh faces lead the way. But there’s no formula. All actors today are aligned with the film’s vision, they’ve become more understanding of the changing landscape. You cannot put it all in one box.”

Johar emphasized that both star-driven and content-driven films have succeeded — and failed. “If your vision is big, even young actors can carry it through. But it doesn’t guarantee success. The same goes for superstars. There is no fixed equation anymore.”

Referencing iconic films, he added, “There will be many movies with newcomers that are musicals — but not all of them will be Saiyaara. Just because you’re doing animation doesn’t mean it will be Narasimha. That’s the reality. Box office has no rules. You create your story, tell it differently, and then it’s up to the audience. They decide what deserves their love — and their money.”

Johar’s comments reflect a broader shift in Indian cinema, where audiences are now rewarding originality, emotion, and risk — regardless of star power.

Aside from promoting Mirai, Karan Johar’s slate includes a mix of commercial and experimental projects. He's producing several high-profile releases including: Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari, Chand Mera Dil, Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri and more.

With Mirai touted as a genre-defining fantasy saga, and Johar’s understanding of shifting audience expectations, the stage is set for bold new storytelling in Indian cinema.