Karan Johar Admits Poor Negotiation Skills After 1000 Crore Dharma Deal
Karan Johar’s Humble Admission About His Negotiation Skills
A Candid Confession
Karan Johar, the acclaimed filmmaker and producer, has been open about both his personal and professional life. Recently, he shared a humorous revelation regarding his business acumen, particularly after selling 50% of his renowned Dharma Productions. In this deal, he candidly described himself as a "terrible negotiator," indicating that he tends to offer more than he gains in business discussions.
Details of the Major Deal
In 2024, Karan made headlines by selling half of Dharma Productions to Adar Poonawalla’s Serene Productions for ₹1,000 crore. This landmark agreement valued Dharma Productions and Dharmatic Entertainment at ₹2,000 crore, marking it as one of the largest transactions in the Indian entertainment scene. Despite the impressive figures, Karan maintains that he does not excel in business negotiations.
Insights from the Filmmaker
In a chat with Curly Tales, Karan stated, "My business acumen is not the sharpest. You may not believe me, but it’s true." He credited Apoorva Mehta, the CEO of his company and his childhood friend, as the true business strategist behind their ventures. He explained how Apoorva’s return from London marked a turning point for Dharma Productions, leading to two decades of successful collaboration.
Understanding Business Growth
Karan elaborated on his reasoning behind the deal with Poonawalla, explaining how the investment would significantly enhance the potential for growth. His vision is clear: turning a ₹50 crore investment into ₹1,500 crore with the right backing.
However, he humorously admitted, "I’m the worst. I should never be in the negotiation room because I’ll always give up more and receive less." This self-deprecating sentiment aligns with his creative confidence, which does not extend into the realm of business discussions.
From taking over Dharma Productions after the passing of his father Yash Johar to establishing it as a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, Karan’s journey has indeed been remarkable.
What are your thoughts on Karan Johar’s approach to negotiating in the entertainment industry?
