As ‘Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna’ (KANK) marks its 18th anniversary, director Karan Johar has taken a nostalgic trip back to the film’s production days, sharing a delightful behind-the-scenes video on his Instagram account. The video offers fans a glimpse into the camaraderie and fun that defined the making of this memorable film.

In the video, Johar showcases candid moments featuring the star-studded cast, including Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Preity Zinta, Abhishek Bachchan, Amitabh Bachchan, and Arjun Rampal. The clips highlight the playful and relaxed atmosphere on set, underscoring the close relationships between the cast members, whom Johar fondly describes as his “family.”

 

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Johar reflects on the film’s journey with a heartfelt message: “KANK was a road I didn’t necessarily have to take, but it turned out to be the best decision I ever made. This film not only gave me unforgettable moments with a phenomenal cast that felt like family but also empowered me to tell stories about complex relationships that are messy yet beautiful—much like life itself. Here’s to 18 years of #KabhiAlvidaNaaKehna!”

Also Read: Rani Mukerji froze while filming ‘Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna’

The post quickly garnered attention, with fans and industry peers flooding the comments section with their own memories and appreciation. Actress Neha Dhupia simply expressed her awe with a heartfelt “Oh my.” Abhishek Bachchan reminisced about the project, noting “Best memories,” while designer Manish Malhotra praised the film as “a film before its times,” reminiscing about their extensive shoot in New York.

Released in 2006, ‘Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna’ explored the complexities of love and marriage through its central characters—Dev (Shah Rukh Khan) and Maya (Rani Mukerji). Both are struggling in their respective marriages when they meet and initially bond over their shared issues, only to develop a deep and complicated relationship. Despite its mixed critical reception and its departure from conventional Bollywood narratives, the film was lauded for its bold storytelling and emotional depth.

One of the standout aspects of KANK was its soundtrack, composed by the talented trio Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy. The film’s music, featuring tracks like ‘Mitwa,’ ‘Rock n Roll,’ ‘Where the Party At,’ and the title song ‘Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna,’ continues to be a hit on playlists and dance floors.

Though it did not become a blockbuster, KANK is popular for its unique approach and the way it captured the complexities of modern relationships. Filmed predominantly in New York, it remains a significant part of Bollywood’s cinematic landscape, reflecting the evolving narrative style of the time.

As Karan Johar celebrates the film’s legacy, the fond memories and lasting impact of ‘Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna’ remind us of the power of storytelling and the enduring charm of its unforgettable cast.