Nikkhil Advani credits Kal Ho Naa Ho’s success to Karan Johar’s writing: “The script was director-proof”

When Kal Ho Naa Ho hit the big screen in 2003, many fans of Karan Johar's signature style assumed he had directed the film. However, it was Nikkhil Advani who brought the film to life, starring Shah Rukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan and Preity Zinta. Despite the film's massive success, a temporary rift developed between Karan Johar and Nikkhil Advani that was later resolved. In a recent interview, Nikkhil shared deep insights about the making of this popular classic. 

Karan Johar's regrets and Nikkhil Advani's views 

In an interview with Digital Commentary, Nikkhil spoke about Karan Johar's recent statement that his biggest regret is not directing Kal Ho Naa Ho. "I read somewhere yesterday that Karan's biggest regret is not being able to direct Kal Ho Naa Ho. But that's not true because, in my opinion, the script is infallible," Nikkhil said. He said Karan's precise script left very little room for error and ensured the success of the film regardless of who directed it. 

A "director-proof" script 

Nikhil highlighted how Karan's script shaped every aspect of Kal Ho Naa Ho, from the heartfelt emotions in the second half to the comedic moments with Sushma Seth, Rajpal Yadav and Delnaaz Irani. "Karan is a brilliant dialogue writer. The emotions in the second half... Jaya Ji's emotions, the revelation at half-time that Shah Rukh is dying. "I was ready for the race," he said. 

Technical contributions by Nikkhl Advani 

Though Karan Johar's script laid the foundation, Nikkhil's technical expertise gave the film a distinctive touch. He introduced techniques like split screen and breaking the fourth wall. "I was the one doing the shot breakdowns, split screens and things like that," he recalls. Nikkhil also took the initiative, bringing on board music directors Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, inspired by their work on Dil Chahta Hai. The Legacy of Kal Ho Naa Ho Produced by the late Yash Johar, the film was expected to be a blockbuster. It would complete Dharma Productions' trilogy after Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham. Twenty years on, Kal Ho Naa Ho remains a cultural landmark. Its recent theatrical re-release allowed fans to relive the magic and bask in its emotional depth and timeless appeal.