Filmfare 2025: SRK takes a dig at Karan Johar’s transformation, gets a legendary ‘Wankhede’ clapback
Mumbai: Shah Rukh Khan and Karan Johar brought their trademark humour to the stage as co-hosts of the 70th Filmfare Awards in Ahmedabad, leaving the audience in splits during a playful exchange about Karan’s recent transformation.
During the show, SRK remarked on Karan’s noticeable weight loss, saying, “Bahaut alag lag rahe ho (You are looking very different),” to which the filmmaker replied, “Zyada exercise karne laga hoon aajkal ( I have been working out a lot).” Shah Rukh, known for his sharp wit, quipped, “Ohh, you are working out! Are you trying to go for the Ozempic?” before quickly correcting himself, “I mean Olympic.”
Karan, never one to miss a beat, fired back with a cheeky retort, “Haan, Wankhede mein hai Olympics. Aaoge? (The Olympics are in the Wankhede this year. Will you come?)” – a reference that sent the audience laughing, and subtly alluded to SRK’s past controversy at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium.
SRK’s Wankhede ban
The remark drew nostalgic laughter as fans recalled the 2012 incident when Shah Rukh Khan was banned from entering Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium for five years after a post-match altercation with security officials during an IPL game between Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians. The ban, announced by then-MCA president Vilasrao Deshmukh, was lifted after three years.
Later, in an interview on Aap Ki Adalat, SRK explained his side of the story, saying he had reacted angrily because his children were present and he felt a security guard had used an offensive term. “I was very upset because my children were there… I believed the word had a religious undertone and was highly inappropriate,” he said, admitting that he lost his temper in the heat of the moment.
Karan denies ‘Ozempic’ rumours
Karan Johar has frequently dismissed rumours suggesting that he used Ozempic – or similar medication – for weight loss, attributing his fitness transformation to discipline and consistent workouts.
Ozempic, the brand name for the injectable drug semaglutide, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that slows digestion, helps control blood sugar, and promotes a lasting feeling of fullness — which often leads to weight loss. While approved in India primarily for managing diabetes, it has increasingly become associated with weight reduction and improved cardiovascular health.
Filmfare turns 70
Both stars, celebrating decades of friendship and collaboration, reflected on the legacy of Filmfare as they marked the 70th edition of the awards.
Speaking about the milestone, Shah Rukh said, “From the first time I held the Black Lady in my hands, to sharing countless memories with my colleagues and fans over the years; it’s been a journey of love, cinema, and magic. To return as a co-host for the 70th year is truly special, and I promise we’ll make it a night to remember, full of laughter, nostalgia and celebration of the movies we all love.”
Karan echoed the sentiment, adding, “Filmfare is not just an award, it’s a legacy that has shaped the very narrative of Indian cinema and continues to live across generations. From the year 2000, I have attended almost every Filmfare Awards and hosted many as well. As we celebrate 70 glorious years, I am truly delighted to co-host what promises to be one of the most memorable nights ever.”
The SRK–KJo banter once again reminded fans why the duo remains one of Bollywood’s most beloved partnerships — blending charm, wit, and friendship in perfect measure.
(With inputs from IANS)