Karan Johar Opens Up About Body Dysmorphia: ‘Still Uncomfortable In My Own Skin’
In a recent podcast appearance, filmmaker Karan Johar has once again shared his ongoing struggle with body dysmorphia, a mental health condition characterized by excessive concern over perceived flaws in one's appearance. The 52-year-old director revealed that he still experiences discomfort and self-consciousness related to his body image, despite achieving significant professional success.
Johar confessed that his battle with body dysmorphia has been a long-standing issue, impacting his self-perception for many years. "After 52 years, I finally feel confident. Otherwise, I do suffer from body dysmorphia," he stated, describing the condition as feeling "ashamed" and "awkward" about one's own body. He even admitted to struggling to look at himself in the mirror.
Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) involves fixating on perceived flaws in one's appearance, even if those flaws are unnoticeable to others. This can lead to significant distress and impairment in daily life. Symptoms of BDD include constant worry about appearance, a belief that others notice and criticize perceived flaws, low self-esteem, and avoidance of social situations.
Johar has been open about his insecurities in the past, admitting to feeling uncomfortable in his own skin and constantly battling the feeling of being overweight. "No matter what success you achieve, no matter who you think you are in your own head, I'm always in oversized clothes...I'm always feeling I'm fat," he said. He also revealed that his insecurities extend to intimate situations, where he prefers the lights off. "Even in situations of intimacy, I need to put the lights out," Johar confessed.
The director has sought professional help, including therapy and medication, to cope with his body image issues. He noted that these issues have been present since childhood, stating, "Nothing has changed since I was eight. I self-body shame myself all the time".
Johar also addressed the rumors and assumptions people make about his physical transformation. He expressed frustration with comments suggesting he is using "skinny shots" like Ozempic and Mounjaro to lose weight. "Now people ask me, 'Are you on Mounjaro? Are you on Ozempic?' I am tired of these comments. People don't know my truth. You don't know," Johar asserted. He clarified that he has been battling his weight for years and was recently diagnosed with thyroid issues, which he is actively working to correct through lifestyle changes. "I have always been battling the bulge. I've tried thousands of diets, five hundred kinds of workouts, every type you can imagine," he explained.
Despite his struggles, Johar maintains a positive outlook, emphasizing that he feels healthy and confident in his own skin. "Long story short, I know that I am very healthy. I've never felt lighter, never felt better. I've never, ever felt more confident in my own skin and that gives me nothing but joy," he concluded.
By speaking openly about his experiences with body dysmorphia, Karan Johar is helping to break the silence surrounding mental health issues and reminding others that these struggles can affect anyone, regardless of their perceived success or fame. His honesty encourages a more open and understanding dialogue about body image and mental well-being.
