Filmmaker and producer Karan Johar, known for his wit, honesty, and ability to poke fun at himself, recently opened up about one of his biggest regrets — turning down a free property in Goa that was offered to him years ago. The Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani director revealed that the offer came from a man who wanted to express his gratitude toward Karan’s late father, Yash Johar, for helping him during a difficult time. Looking back, Karan says he “still slaps himself” for not accepting what could have been an incredible opportunity.
In a candid and humorous conversation on a talk show, Karan Johar shared the story that left both the audience and his co-guests stunned. “There was this gentleman who my father had helped years ago. When my dad passed away, he reached out to me and said, ‘Karan, I owe everything to your father. Please accept this piece of land in Goa — it’s yours.’ I was so shocked and overwhelmed that I immediately refused. I said, ‘No, I can’t take this, it wouldn’t be right,’” Karan recalled.
What makes the story even more ironic is that Karan Johar, over the years, has often spoken about his love for Goa — a place he visits frequently with friends, family, and even for creative retreats. Laughing at his own decision now, he said, “Every time I go to Goa and see those beautiful villas by the beach, I literally slap myself. I can’t believe I said no! I could have been sitting in my own house there, sipping coffee and writing scripts. But no — I had to be all ethical and principled!”
He added that at the time, his decision came from a place of humility and respect for his father’s legacy. “When my dad passed away, I was very emotional. I felt that accepting something like that would cheapen what he stood for. My father was an honest man who helped people without expecting anything in return, and I didn’t want to take advantage of that goodwill. But now, years later, when I think of it practically, I laugh at myself. Maybe a little practicality wouldn’t have hurt!” he joked.
Karan’s anecdote quickly went viral after the show aired, with fans reacting with a mix of amusement and empathy. Many commented that his regret was understandable given the skyrocketing property prices in Goa, which has become one of India’s most sought-after real estate destinations in recent years.
Some social media users playfully teased him, saying, “Even Karan Johar has regrets like the rest of us,” while others admired his honesty in sharing the story so openly. A few fans even pointed out that his refusal reflected his deep-rooted values — a testament to the integrity that his father, Yash Johar, was known for.
Yash Johar, the legendary filmmaker and founder of Dharma Productions, was one of the most respected figures in the Indian film industry, known for his warmth, generosity, and humility. He produced iconic films such as Dostana (1980), Agneepath (1990), and Kabhi Kabhie, and mentored countless artists during his lifetime. Karan, who took over Dharma Productions after his father’s passing in 2004, has often spoken about how deeply Yash Johar’s principles influence his own life and work.
Reflecting on the incident, Karan added, “I think that’s what my dad would have done — he wouldn’t have accepted something like that either. So maybe it’s fine. But honestly, the way real estate in Goa has gone up now, I feel like I should have at least taken it and then donated it later!”
He also shared that every time he visits Goa now, he jokingly tells his friends the same story. “It’s become a running joke. Every time we drive past a villa, someone says, ‘Karan, that could’ve been yours!’ and I say, ‘Don’t remind me!’”
In true Karan Johar fashion, he concluded the anecdote with a laugh, turning a missed opportunity into a memorable and relatable story — one that proves that even Bollywood’s most successful filmmaker sometimes wishes he’d made a different choice.
And while he may not own that dream home in Goa, Karan Johar’s ability to laugh at himself — and his deep respect for his father’s values — once again remind fans why he remains one of the most grounded and self-aware voices in the industry.
