Karan Johar Explains the Rise of Bollywood Stars in Business Ventures
In today's entertainment landscape, Bollywood actors are no longer solely reliant on film paychecks for their income. A growing number of stars have diversified their portfolios by venturing into various business sectors, expanding their horizons beyond the silver screen. In a recent candid interview, filmmaker and entrepreneur Karan Johar shed light on this trend, revealing why more actors are turning to business investments and what sets the successful ones apart.
Shah Rukh Khan's Masterclass in Business Engagement
Johar highlighted Shah Rukh Khan's involvement with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) as a prime example of genuine entrepreneurial success. He recalled that SRK partnered with KKR when the Indian Premier League launched in 2007, describing it as "the first time that there was a genuine, amazing, master partnership." According to Johar, this venture has flourished not because of Khan's star power alone, but due to his deep personal commitment.
"Shah Rukh Khan bought a cricket team when it started decades ago, look at the valuation today," Johar stated. "It is because SRK is obsessed, passionate and sincerely active about his liaison with KKR. He is not just adding presence in that stadium or giving his name to that partnership. It is because he strategises, he engages, he obsesses, he gives hours of his time to that liaison. That is why it is such a profitable venture for him and that is why it’s probably bigger than any business in movies that he is engaged with."
When Khan initially purchased a 55 percent stake in KKR, the team was valued at approximately Rs 300 crore. Recent reports indicate that the actor is now planning to increase his holding by an additional 35 percent, a move that could require an investment nearing Rs 4,000 crore, reflecting the tremendous growth and success of this enterprise.
Hands-On Approach: The Key to Celebrity Brand Success
Johar extended his analysis to other Bollywood celebrities who have found success in business, citing examples such as Alia Bhatt's maternity and baby brand and Katrina Kaif's makeup line. He emphasized that their achievements stem from a hands-on approach rather than passive endorsement.
"Katrina genuinely engages. I am telling you the success stories. I know what Alia puts into her brand," Johar remarked, underscoring the importance of authentic involvement.
He pointed out that modern consumers are highly perceptive and can quickly discern whether a celebrity is truly invested in a business or merely lending their name for promotional purposes. "My first thing is how engaged will you be? Or are you fake engaging? Are you just posting videos? Are you just doing live Instagram videos? Are you just adding your name? Are you just doing paid partnerships but not having equity deals with it? Are you genuinely engaged?" Johar questioned, highlighting the critical difference between superficial association and substantive commitment.
Johar's Personal Entrepreneurial Journey
Reflecting on his own experiences in business, Johar shared that he once considered launching a streetwear label but reconsidered upon realizing the market was saturated with international competitors. "I will be one of many," he thought, prompting a strategic pivot.
Instead, he chose to launch a jewellery brand aligned with his personal passions and upbringing. "I knew that’s my passion hugely because I have grown up surrounded by my mother’s obsession with jewellery," Johar explained. He revealed a poignant personal milestone: purchasing his mother her first solitaire after the success of his debut film Kuch Kuch Hota Hai at age 25.
Today, Johar has been the public face of his jewellery brand for several years and remains actively engaged in its daily operations, demonstrating the same principles of involvement he advocates for others.
The Broader Trend: Bollywood's Business Evolution
This shift towards business diversification among Bollywood actors represents a significant evolution in the industry. Stars are increasingly leveraging their fame not just for endorsements, but for building sustainable enterprises where they play integral roles. Johar's insights suggest that success in these ventures hinges on:
- Genuine passion for the business domain
- Active participation in strategy and operations
- Long-term commitment beyond initial investment
- Authentic engagement that resonates with consumers
As the lines between entertainment and entrepreneurship continue to blur, Johar's commentary offers valuable perspective on how Bollywood's biggest names are rewriting the rules of celebrity business ventures, proving that true success requires more than just a famous face—it demands dedication, strategy, and heartfelt involvement.
