The ongoing Karan Johar Manoj Bajpayee feud over The Family Man resurfaced after Johar failed to mention the celebrated series at a recent event, igniting frustration among fans. The omission took place during a high-profile industry gathering, with audiences quickly taking to social media to voice their displeasure over the perceived slight.
Karan Johar’s Omission Fuels Speculation
At The Traitors event, Karan Johar referenced a number of successful Amazon Prime productions but notably omitted The Family Man, a series starring Manoj Bajpayee that has garnered both critical and popular acclaim. According to industry reports, this exclusion is believed to stem from a lingering conflict between Johar and Bajpayee. The reported feud traces back to an incident when Shabana Raza, Bajpayee’s wife, refused a role offered by Johar. It has been alleged, as per a Mid-Day article, that Johar’s response to the decision was sharp and dismissive.
Johar is reported to have remarked,
“You people who come from outside will be just flukes.”
—Karan Johar, Filmmaker
Fan Backlash Erupts Online
Shortly after the event, fans of The Family Man and Manoj Bajpayee expressed strong disapproval on social media platforms. Many argued that the show, given its impressive track record and widespread popularity, deserved acknowledgment among top streaming series. For numerous viewers, the omission seemed less like an oversight and more like a deliberate exclusion, given the background of discord between the director and the actor.
History of Tension Between Johar and Bajpayee
The strained dynamic between Karan Johar and Manoj Bajpayee is not new. Reports have suggested that after Bajpayee declined a role at Johar’s production house Dharma, a staff member made disparaging remarks, fueling further speculation of a rift. Adding to the speculation, Johar has reportedly never invited Bajpayee to appear on his show “Koffee with Karan,” reinforcing the perception of tensions between the two film industry figures.
The Family Man’s Enduring Popularity
Despite not being mentioned at the event, The Family Man continues to draw praise for its gripping narrative and the strong performances of its cast, particularly by Manoj Bajpayee. Fans saw its absence in Johar’s remarks as a notable slight, especially because of the series’ influential standing in Indian entertainment discussions.
Renewed Attention on Bollywood Rivalries
The recent incident has once again brought the spotlight back onto one of Bollywood’s most talked-about professional rivalries. As public scrutiny intensifies, followers of both Manoj Bajpayee and Karan Johar remain hopeful that one day, mutual recognition and collaboration may bridge the divide, benefiting Indian cinema as a whole.
