Karan Johar joins 'intolerance' debate, says freedom of expression and democracy are 'biggest jokes'

Karan Johar spoke about freedom of expression and democracy while addressing the audience at a lit fest.

Karan Johar in 'Bombay Velvet'.

Mumbai: Karan Johar is the latest to join the league of actors and film personalities who have spoken about the alleged “growing intolerance” in the country by making a controversial remark.

Speaking at the Zee Jaipur Literature Festival, the producer-director said that ‘freedom of expression’ is “the biggest joke” in today’s world, reported ANI.

Johar added, “Revealing your mind in today’s time can land you in jail. We are in a tough country to speak about our personal lives. I feel very sad about it, because being a public figure, you are expected to help a certain movement.”

“Talk about Freedom of expression, which is the biggest joke in the world, I believe...Democracy is the second biggest joke...I think. I really wonder how are we really democratic? Where is the freedom of expression? I am a film maker and I feel bound at every level.”

According to a report in PTI, veteran actor Anupam Kher commented on Johar's remarks and stated "Before 2014 everyone in out country used to live in peace and harmony. No one was afraid of anyone. Everyone lived happily. Jai Ho!"

Further filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt took to twitter to show his support for Johar,"In these times where everyone is trying to impress the powers that rule! it is heartening to see Karan take the risk of being honest."

A few months back, Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan had drawn flak from various quarters for making controversial remarks about the intolerance issue.