Actor Kartik Aaryan has broken his silence on his current equation with filmmaker Karan Johar, years after their rumoured fallout during the production of Dostana 2 in 2021. Kartik described their relationship as a “love-hate bond” while addressing speculation about their professional dynamic.
Kartik on His Bond with Karan
Kartik’s comments came during the SCREEN LIVE event in Mumbai, where he was shown a photograph of himself with Karan Johar. The image, taken on a previous occasion, shows Karan playfully pulling Kartik’s ear. Reacting to the picture, Kartik quipped, “Ispe kya bolu? (What do I say to this?) I think yeh love and hate relationship hai… Bahut ache yeh photo represent karti hai (I think this is a love and hate relationship. This photo represents that very well).”
The actor revealed that the photo dates back to the time when they signed Dostana 2. Kartik remarked, “Yeh moment tab ka hai jab hum logo ne pehli film, jo humari honi thi kabhi, voh sign ki thi. Toh tab ka moment hai. I think he knew ki main… photo pehle se le li thi (This was the moment when our first film, which was going to happen, was signed. This was then. I think he knew that I… so he took the picture beforehand).”
Kartik also confirmed that he and Karan are collaborating again on a new project titled Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri. The film, directed by Sameer Vidwans and backed by Dharma Productions, is slated for release in 2026. Expressing his optimism, Kartik said, “I truly hope it happens this time around.”
Mummy ki khaayi hui kasam, yeh Mumma’s boy poori karke he rehta hai! Tumhara Ray aa raha hai Rumi✈️♥️ Super excited to return to my fav genre Rom-com #TuMeriMainTeraMainTeraTuMeri… The biggest love story coming to cinemas in 2026 ❤️#KaranJohar @adarpoonawalla @apoorvamehta18… pic.twitter.com/zLhIcn1RVS — Kartik Aaryan (@TheAaryanKartik) December 25, 2024
The 2021 Feud
Rumours of a fallout between Kartik and Karan surfaced in 2021, leading to Kartik’s exit from Dostana 2. Reports at the time suggested that Kartik was dropped from the film due to alleged unprofessional behaviour on set. Dharma Productions later issued a statement announcing that the project would be recast and reshot.
Since then, the duo has appeared cordial at public events, including the inauguration of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, where Karan praised Kartik’s contributions to Indian cinema. He said, “Kartik’s films have deeply resonated with the country and have always brought so much fervour back to the cinema halls. More power to him.”
Their Upcoming Collaboration
“Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri” marks the first official collaboration between Kartik and Karan since the Dostana 2 fallout. Fans and industry insiders are eagerly awaiting the outcome of this renewed partnership, hoping it signals a fresh chapter in their professional relationship.