Highlights
- PM Narendra Modi referenced Kuch Kuch Hota Hai while speaking about India-Indonesia relations in Jakarta
- The Prime Minister noted the film's title song remains popular in Indonesia
- Karan Johar thanked Modi for the mention, saying it helped keep the film's legacy alive
A Bollywood classic found an unexpected place in a diplomatic address when Prime Minister Narendra Modi referenced Kuch Kuch Hota Hai during his speech in Jakarta. Using the iconic film title to illustrate the growing partnership between India and Indonesia, Modi highlighted the enduring popularity of Indian cinema in the Southeast Asian nation. The reference prompted filmmaker Karan Johar to share his appreciation, saying he was "elated & honoured" by the mention.
PM Modi used a Bollywood classic to underline India-Indonesia ties
While addressing an audience in Jakarta, Modi spoke about the cultural bond between India and Indonesia and pointed to the continued popularity of Kuch Kuch Hota Hai's title song in the country.
Drawing on the film's name, he remarked that when India and Indonesia move forward together, it becomes much more than just "kuch kuch" (something), growing into "bahut kuch" (so much more). The wordplay linked a well-known Bollywood title with the expanding relationship between the two nations.
Karan Johar says the moment was an honour
Johar later reshared a video of Modi's speech on his Instagram Stories and thanked the Prime Minister for the unexpected tribute.
"Elated & honoured to have our esteemed Prime Minister @narendramodi ji speak about Kuch Kuch Hota Hai in Jakarta. There is indeed a language that transcends all its love. Thank you for embracing and making this song live forever!!!" he wrote.
The filmmaker's response quickly drew attention from fans, many of whom celebrated the film's continued global recognition nearly three decades after its release.
The film continues to resonate across generations
Released in 1998, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai marked Johar's directorial debut and was produced by his father, Yash Johar.
Starring Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol and Rani Mukerji, with Salman Khan and Sana Saeed in key roles, the romantic drama became one of Bollywood's defining films and remains widely recognized around the world.
In October 2025, Johar celebrated the film's 27th anniversary by sharing behind-the-scenes photographs from the set, reflecting on the project that launched his career as a director and continues to find new audiences decades later.
