Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna (2006)

Karan Johar's ambitious 2006 drama, *Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna*, dares to explore the complexities of love, marriage, and discontent in modern relationships. At its heart are Dev (Shah Rukh Khan) and Maya (Rani Mukerji), two individuals whose lives intersect amidst personal turmoil. Dev and Maya are both married to different people, seemingly settled into lives of domestic ritual and convinced that they are happy in their respective relationships. Yet, beneath the surface of their seemingly perfect lives, they still yearn for something deeper and more meaningful—a void that, unexpectedly and powerfully, they find themselves filling in each other. This controversial narrative delves into the emotional wreckage left behind when two souls, seeking genuine connection, challenge the very foundations of societal norms and marital vows. This film stands out as one of Karan Johar's most significant and daring works, pushing beyond the conventional romantic comedies and family sagas for which he was already celebrated. It marked a pivotal moment in his career, demonstrating his willingness to tackle a taboo subject – infidelity and the pursuit of happiness outside of marriage – with sensitivity, nuance, and an unflinching gaze. The signature KJo grandeur is present – lavish New York backdrops, a stellar ensemble cast (Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Abhishek Bachchan, Preity Zinta, Amitabh Bachchan), and a memorable soundtrack – but it's the raw emotional honesty and the courage to explore unhappy marriages that truly elevate it. For its bold storytelling, mature themes, and its refusal to offer easy answers, *Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna* solidifies its place as a thought-provoking and essential entry in Karan Johar's filmography, proving his depth as a filmmaker.