Took voice, walking coaching as I ran & sounded like a girl: Karan
Karan Johar, a renowned Indian filmmaker, has recently shared a rather surprising and personal anecdote from his teenage years. In a candid conversation, Karan revealed that he took voice and walking coaching classes for three years, starting at the age of 15. The reason behind this unusual decision was that he used to run and sound like a girl, which made him feel self-conscious and insecure.
As Karan recounted, his coach at the time told him, “You won’t face the world with the confidence that you need if you don’t sound like a man.” These words had a profound impact on Karan, and he felt compelled to make a change. He wanted to sound like a man, to be perceived as strong and confident, and to shed off the feminine traits that he felt were holding him back.
However, Karan’s decision to take coaching classes was not without its challenges. He had to hide this aspect of his life from his father, as he was afraid of being judged or ridiculed. In order to keep his coaching classes a secret, Karan told his father that he was attending computer classes instead. This deception allowed him to pursue his goal of changing his voice and walking style without fear of criticism or disapproval.
It’s interesting to note that Karan’s experience is not unique. Many individuals, particularly during their formative years, struggle with issues related to identity, self-perception, and societal expectations. The pressure to conform to traditional gender norms can be overwhelming, and it’s not uncommon for people to feel like they don’t fit into the narrow definitions of masculinity or femininity.
Karan’s story serves as a reminder that it’s essential to be true to oneself and to embrace one’s individuality. Rather than trying to change who we are to fit into societal norms, we should focus on building our self-confidence and self-acceptance. By doing so, we can overcome the obstacles that stand in our way and achieve our goals, just like Karan did.
Moreover, Karan’s experience highlights the importance of seeking help and guidance when needed. His decision to take coaching classes, although driven by a desire to change his voice and walking style, ultimately helped him develop the confidence he needed to succeed in his career. It’s a testament to the fact that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and that it’s never too late to make a positive change in our lives.
In addition, Karan’s story raises important questions about the societal expectations placed on individuals, particularly in terms of gender. Why is it that men are expected to sound and walk in a certain way, while women are expected to conform to different standards? Why is it that individuals who don’t fit into these narrow definitions are often ridiculed or ostracized?
These are complex issues that require a nuanced and multifaceted approach. However, by sharing his personal story, Karan Johar has helped to spark a conversation about these topics and has encouraged others to do the same. By speaking out and sharing our experiences, we can help to break down the barriers that stand in our way and create a more inclusive and accepting society.
In conclusion, Karan Johar’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-acceptance, confidence, and individuality. His decision to take voice and walking coaching classes, although driven by a desire to change his voice and walking style, ultimately helped him develop the confidence he needed to succeed in his career. As we reflect on Karan’s experience, we are reminded that it’s essential to be true to ourselves and to embrace our unique qualities, rather than trying to change who we are to fit into societal norms.
About the Author
