Veteran filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya has drawn a surprising yet thought-provoking parallel between his iconic romantic hero Prem and the controversial character Kabir Singh from the 2019 blockbuster. In a recent interview published on March 2, 2026, Barjatya described the two larger-than-life on-screen figures as “two sides of the same coin”, highlighting how both represent extreme expressions of love shaped by their respective eras and cinematic styles.
Speaking to a leading entertainment portal while promoting his upcoming family drama, Barjatya explained, “Prem and Kabir Singh are two sides of the same coin. Prem is the ideal, gentle, respectful lover who wins hearts through patience, family values, and pure emotion. Kabir Singh is the raw, unfiltered, obsessive side of passion—intense, possessive, flawed, and sometimes destructive.
A Deeper Commentary on Love in Cinema
Barjatya acknowledged the criticism Kabir Singh received for glorifying toxic behaviour, but argued that both characters serve as mirrors to society: “Prem was aspirational for a generation that believed in courtship, respect, and family approval. Kabir Singh was aspirational for another generation that craves intensity, ownership, and breaking norms—even if it crosses lines. Cinema doesn’t create behaviour; it reflects what already exists in the collective subconscious.” He added that the contrast between the two shows how the portrayal of romance has evolved—from idealistic and restrained to raw and confrontational—yet both stem from the same core human desire: to love deeply and be loved in return.
Reactions from Fans and Industry
The comment quickly sparked debate online. Some fans appreciated the nuanced take:
- “Finally someone says it! Prem is the dream, Kabir is the nightmare—same coin, different sides.”
- “Sooraj Barjatya dropping truth bombs. Love how he connects old-school romance with modern chaos.”
Barjatya, known for wholesome family entertainers, clarified he was not endorsing toxic behaviour but analyzing how cinema captures changing attitudes toward love across decades.As he prepares to bring another heartfelt family saga to screens, Sooraj Barjatya’s observation reminds us that every romantic hero—whether gentle or explosive—reflects the cultural moment he inhabits.
-By Manoj H