Karan Johar is renowned for romance dramas, family entertainers, and feel-good movies. As the filmmaker gears up for the upcoming comedy-drama Bad Newz we have noticed that he has managed to maintain a Punjabi tadka in his films over the years. Dharma Productions movies have celebrated Punjabi culture through music, language, and characters that sincerely resonate with the audience. Bad Newz is a comedy caper featuring Bollywood’s very own Punjabi Munda Vicky Kaushal, Punjabi actor Ammy Virk, and Triptii Dimri. Vicky brings his cultural element in the film which also has a right touch of the language in dialogues, characters, and songs. As we look forward to Bad Newz release slated on July 19, 2024, let’s take a look at when Karan Johar has seamlessly infused Punjabi flavors into his movies.

Despite Kal Ho Naa Ho (2003) being set in New York, Karan Johar has masterfully weaved Punjabi roots into the film. While Preity Zinta is from a Punjabi family, Saif Ali Khan hails from a Gujurati family. Famous song track Maahi Ve infuses Punjabi folk beats and lyrics, adding a vibrant touch to the emotional storyline. Good Newwz (2019) explores two Punjabi couples navigating themselves through the complexities of pregnancy and sperm exchange. Amidst the drama, Karan Johar incorporates Punjabi familial dynamics and traditions, grounding the story in cultural authenticity while adding energetic and vibrant songs like ‘Sauda Khara Khara’.

With Jug Jug Jeeyo (2022) and Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani (2023) Johar continued his trend of keeping Punjabi culture alive in films. These movies include characters and settings that reflect modern Punjab portraying vibrant celebrations, familial bonds, and the infectious spirit of Punjabi music. In RARKPK Ranveer Singh’s character is a stud Delhi boy while Varun Dhawan’s character in JJJ is a pure Punjabi family boy.

Johar's ability to maintain the "Punjabi tadka" across his films lies not only in his storytelling but also in his casting choices and attention to detail. Whether it's through character quirks, dialogues peppered with Punjabi phrases, or foot-tapping music, he creates a cinematic experience that celebrates the diversity and vibrancy of Indian culture.