Karan Johar has shared a deeply emotional review of Prime Video’s latest crime drama Raakh, applauding its powerful storytelling and standout performances while admitting that the series left him profoundly unsettled. The filmmaker took to Instagram to express his thoughts after watching the show, which features Sonali Bendre, Ali Fazal, and Aamir Bashir in pivotal roles. Notably, his reaction comes shortly after he made headlines for unfollowing nearly everyone on Instagram as part of a self-imposed digital detox aimed at cutting down screen time.
Reflecting on the impact of the series, Karan wrote, “I was trying to take time off from the gram… I thought I was successful till I saw this gut-wrenching series and felt the need to express myself.” He went on to describe how deeply the show affected him, saying, “It’s 1.35 am and I am deeply disturbed after watching the last episode… Disturbed as a parent, as a human being, and as a member of society.”
According to Karan, Raakh delves into the darkest corners of human nature. “The ugliest side of humanity is what RAAKH explores…. No justification or childhood trauma is reason enough to succumb to an inner devil,” he wrote. He further admitted that the emotional weight of the series is likely to stay with him for some time, adding, “I am not sure I will recover soon from this trauma binge…”
The filmmaker also praised director Prosit Roy for his nuanced handling of the subject. “What I need to applaud is Prosit Roy’s incredible storytelling, strong hold, and non-manipulative approach to emotional depiction, and a special chef’s kiss to his undeniable craft,” he noted.
However, it was the performances that impressed him the most. Karan singled out Sonali Bendre and Aamir Bashir for special praise, describing their portrayals as among the finest of their careers. “What I can’t get out of my head are the career-defining performances of @iamsonalibendre and @bashiraamir. Their portrayal of grief-stricken parents facing unimaginable tragedy left me awestruck. They became the characters, and I salute their depiction,” he wrote.
He also commended Ali Fazal’s performance and acknowledged the work of actors Akash Makhija and Ramandeep Yadav. Summing up his thoughts, Karan described Raakh as “devastating and brilliant in equal measure.”
His review quickly drew responses from industry colleagues. Filmmaker Farah Khan jokingly remarked, “Like all detoxes… this one didn’t last too long also.” Actor Akash Makhija expressed his gratitude, writing, “Am I dreaming? Sirrrr, coming from you, this means a lot to me,” while Ramandeep Yadav also thanked the filmmaker for his appreciation.
Released on Prime Video on June 12, Raakh stars Ali Fazal, Sonali Bendre, and Aamir Bashir in leading roles. The series is directed and executive-produced by Prosit Roy, while Anusha Nandakumar and Sandeep Saket serve as creators, writers, and co-directors. The show is produced by Endemol Shine India in association with BhaDiPa.