Filmmaker Karan Johar has revisited a tense behind-the-scenes incident from Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995), recalling how a costume goof-up during the filming of the iconic song “Mehendi Laga Ke Rakhna” landed him in the line of fire of late choreographer Saroj Khan.
The Last-Minute Red-Scarf Crisis
Johar said the trouble began with an eleventh-hour demand for red scarves/red cloth for background dancers—but the unit had limited fabric available. Trying to manage the shortage, he suggested a quick styling workaround through Khan’s assistant: keep one hand in the pocket so the available cloth could be used more strategically.
“Go to Goregaon… Bring the Laal Kapda”
The plan held only until Saroj Khan arrived and noticed something was off. Johar recalled that she physically shoved him and warned she wouldn’t shoot unless the missing red fabric was arranged—sending him scrambling to source cloth on the spot.
“Traumatised” But Also in Awe
Looking back, Johar said the episode left him shaken—famously calling it a moment where he was “scared for life”—while also acknowledging Khan’s authority and brilliance on set. He also joked that she “never liked” him, especially because he was a young junior who often offered unsolicited opinions on costumes and styling.
Why the Anecdote Still Matters
Johar’s story is a reminder that even classic, feel-good films can be forged under high-pressure conditions—especially for newcomers navigating strong personalities and uncompromising standards on set.
By – Sonali