Mumbai: Filmmaker Karan Johar has broken his silence after social media users noticed that he had unfollowed several Bollywood celebrities on Instagram, clarifying that the move was part of a “digital detox” and not linked to any personal fallout.
The filmmaker addressed the speculation through an Instagram note after online discussions intensified over changes in his following list, particularly involving close friends and industry collaborators.
“It’s a DIGITAL DETOX!!!! Am unfollowing everyone to reduce my time and energy spent on the gram!!! This can’t be national news for god’s sake…please clickbait something else! This is irrelevant!” Johar wrote.
Social media activity sparks speculation
The buzz began after fans observed that Johar had apparently unfollowed several well-known Bollywood personalities, including Shah Rukh Khan, Ananya Panday, Kartik Aaryan and designer Manish Malhotra.
Several other prominent film personalities, including Kareena Kapoor Khan, Malaika Arora, Varun Dhawan, Sidharth Malhotra and Alia Bhatt, were also reportedly absent from his following list.
The sudden activity triggered widespread speculation online, with users attempting to link the move to possible tensions within the film industry.
Priyanka Chopra remains on following list
Amid the widespread unfollowing spree, fans also noticed that Priyanka Chopra continued to remain on Johar’s following list, leading to further online discussions.
As of Thursday evening, Johar was reportedly following only 78 accounts despite having over 17.5 million followers on Instagram.
However, the filmmaker has now dismissed all rumours surrounding the move and reiterated that the decision was simply intended to reduce his social media engagement.
Filmmaker says move was part of ‘digital detox’
Johar stated that the decision was aimed at minimising the time and energy he spends on Instagram rather than signalling any fallout with friends or colleagues.
The filmmaker’s clarification quickly gained traction online, with several users reacting to his frustration over the intense attention given to his social media activity.
Industry observers note that celebrity Instagram activity frequently becomes a subject of speculation among fans, particularly when it involves high-profile friendships and collaborations in Bollywood.
Karan Johar’s upcoming projects
On the professional front, Johar’s recent production Chand Mera Dil, starring Lakshya and Ananya Panday, reportedly received mixed reviews and witnessed a lukewarm box office response.
The filmmaker is currently preparing for his next production venture, Naagzilla, which stars Kartik Aaryan in the lead role.
Johar remains one of Bollywood’s most influential filmmakers and producers through his banner Dharma Productions, which has backed several successful Hindi films over the years.
