‘Ae Dil Hai Mushkil’ Completes 10 Years as Karan Johar Reflects on One-Sided Love

Filmmaker Karan Johar's directorial 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' completed 10 years on Wednesday, marking a decade since the romantic drama featuring Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan explored the complexities of unrequited love.

Marking the milestone, Karan shared a heartfelt note reflecting on the film's personal significance and its central theme of one-sided love, longing and heartbreak. He described the story as a reflection of several aspects of his own pursuit of love and experiences of heartbreak.

Karan said unrequited love does not necessarily require sympathy or remorse, but rather a deeper understanding of the power of love beyond reciprocation. According to him, people do not need to be loved back for the feeling itself to be meaningful and empowering.

He emphasised that true love lies in selflessness, adding that people should move beyond the desire for reciprocation and embrace love without expectations.

Acknowledging the film's shortcomings and polarised reviews, Karan admitted that it had received criticism, particularly for its third act. However, he maintained that he would tell the story in the same way even today, despite its perceived imperfections.

The filmmaker also defended artistic freedom, stating that no work of art can be perfect and that different interpretations should be welcomed. He added that conviction is essential when telling a story without compromising one's creative vision.

Karan expressed gratitude to Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Fawad Khan for supporting his vision and delivering performances that brought the story to life. He also thanked the entire cast and crew for creating the right 'vatavaran' (atmosphere) on set.

Released in 2016, 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' also featured special appearances by Shah Rukh Khan, Alia Bhatt and Lisa Haydon. The film's soundtrack continues to remain popular, with songs such as 'Channa Mereya', 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil', 'Bulleya', 'The Breakup Song' and 'Cutipie' retaining their appeal among listeners a decade after its release.