MUMBAI: Karan Johar has become a single father of twins – a baby boy and girl – who were born through surrogacy and the filmmaker says he is “enormously blessed” to be a parent.
Johar, 44, has named his daughter Roohi and his son Yash, after his late father Yash Johar.
“I am ecstatic to share with you all the two most wonderful additions to my life, my children and lifelines; Roohi and Yash. I feel enormously blessed to be a parent to these pieces of my heart who were welcomed into this world with the help of the marvels of medical science,” Johar said in a statement.
The “Ae Dil Hai Mushkil” filmmaker says it was an emotional but well thought out decision which he has taken considering all the responsibilities and duties that come with being a parent.
“In order to arrive at this decision, I have prepared myself mentally, physically, emotionally and logistically to ensure that my children get all the unconditional love, care and attention from me and mine. I have submitted to the fact that my children are my world and priority.”
Johar says his work, travels and social commitments will have to take a back seat after the arrival of his kids and he is prepared for that.
“By the grace of God, I have the most caring and supportive mother who will be an integral part in the up-bringing of her grandchildren and of course, friends who are family,” he says.
Thanking the surrogate, the filmmaker says he is eternally grateful to her as she has fulfilled his “lifelong dream and provided a warm, loving and nurturing environment to my children before bringing them into this world.”
“She will always remain in my prayers. Finally, a big thank you to Dr Jatin Shah for his guidance and support and for being like a family member through this wonderful and exciting journey,” he concludes.
Earlier, Johar, in his autobiography, “An Unsuitable Boy”, had expressed a desire to adopt or have a surrogate child.
Last year, actor Tusshar Kapoor welcomed a baby boy, who was born through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and surrogacy.
Johars friend, superstar Shah Rukh Khan’s third child, AbRam, was also born via a surrogate in 2013.
- B-town showers blessings
Karan Johar’s friends and colleagues from Bollywood including Priyanka Chopra, Alia Bhatt and Farah Khan, have expressed their happiness for the director.
Taking to Twitter, the stars congratulated Johar on the arrival of his little ones.
Alia, who considers Johar her mentor and guide, was the first one to wish the filmmaker on social media. “Finally I can say I have a younger brother AND sister!!! So so so happy!!! So much love to give uff bursting with joy,” she tweeted.
Priyanka wrote, “Congratulations @karanjohar so happy for you. May Yash and Roohi always have a beautiful healthy life. Much love always.”
Farah posted, “Glad you took my advice seriously. @karanjohar Best thing to happen to you… And they’ll be the youngest people you hang out with so all’s good.”
Sidharth Malhotra, who made his Bollywood debut with Johar’s “Student of the Year” alongside Alia and Varun Dhawan, is elated with the decision of his first time director. “So happy you took this decision Johar! It’s a full house now. You will be an amazing father, love to your new big family,” he tweeted.
An excited Varun posted, “Karan you are the best human being I know and Im sure you will make the best dad. Can’t wait to meet these lil munchkins.”
Riteish Deshmukh said, “Heartiest congratulations my dearest @karanjohar thrilled beyond words. Love to little angels Roohi & Yash & big big hug to Hiroo aunty.”
Sushant Singh Rajput, who is busy shooting Johar’s next film “Drive”, congratulated the producer on his biggest day. “I’d such a big smile this morning when I read about this. Lots and lots of love @karanjohar and a big hearty congratulations,” Sushant wrote.
Arjun Rampal tweeted, “@karanjohar Congratulations Johar, this is the best news in years. You will make an amazing parent. Love to the little ones. God bless.”
Singer and music-composer Vishal Dadlani said, “Congrats, @karanjohar! You’ll make a wonderful parent. All it takes is a good heart (and lots of patience!).-PTI
