Filmmaker Karan Johar is reportedly disappointed after actor Ibrahim Ali Khan, who made his acting debut under Johar’s banner, called his first film Nadaaniyan “a really bad film.” The statement, which
Ibrahim made in a recent interview, has sparked discussion across Bollywood circles, especially since the actor had previously defended the project when it faced backlash online.
Ibrahim Ali Khan Calls His Debut “A Really Bad Film”
In a candid chat with Esquire India, Ibrahim opened up about the criticism surrounding Nadaaniyan, admitting that the Netflix film was “a really bad film.” His remarks came as a surprise to many, as the actor had earlier lashed out at trolls who mocked the film’s writing and performances.
“Not too long ago, people were all waiting for my launch, and after Nadaaniyan, the hype has dropped real bad,” Ibrahim confessed. “They’ve trolled me nonstop — ‘He won’t be able to do it only.’ It’s a massive low… and I constantly feel bad about it. I’m just gonna go on record and say that it was a really bad film.”
Nadaaniyan, produced by Dharma Productions, marked Ibrahim’s much-hyped debut alongside Khushi Kapoor. However, the film failed to impress critics and audiences alike, drawing criticism for its weak plot and inconsistent tone.
Karan Johar’s Circle Reacts to the Comment
According to a report by Deccan Chronicle, Ibrahim’s blunt remarks have left Karan Johar and his close circle taken aback. A source close to the filmmaker stated, “Karan is not a stranger to ingratitude. Many of his protégés have turned out to be ungrateful. He had promised to launch Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh’s son, and he kept his word. After Nadaaniyan, he even followed it up with Sarzameen, despite being advised against it. If Ibrahim feels Nadaaniyan was bad, then why didn’t Sarzameen work?”
Another insider drew a comparison with Saif Ali Khan’s early days, recalling that he too faced a setback when he was replaced in his debut film Bekhudi. “Not once has Saif spoken against the film or the makers,” the source added, subtly hinting that Ibrahim’s public criticism may have been in poor taste.
Karan Maintains Silence Amid “Betrayal” Claims
While Karan Johar has chosen not to issue any public comment, those close to him reportedly say he feels “hurt” by what they describe as a “betrayal” from someone he had personally supported since the beginning of his career. Johar, who has launched numerous Bollywood stars, is said to value loyalty — making this incident particularly sensitive.
What’s Next for Ibrahim Ali Khan
Following Nadaaniyan, Ibrahim appeared in Sarzameen, co-starring Kajol and Prithviraj Sukumaran, which also premiered on OTT to mixed reviews. The actor is now gearing up for his first theatrical release, titled Diler, directed by Kunal Deshmukh, signaling his next big attempt to establish himself as a promising name in Hindi cinema.
