Kal Ho Naa Ho remains one of Bollywood’s most loved emotional dramas. The 2003 film, produced by YRF Films and Dharma Productions, was written by Karan Johar and directed by Nikhil Advani.
With Shah Rukh Khan, Preity Zinta, and Saif Ali Khan in lead roles, the film became an instant favourite for its story and performances. Fans still cherish its emotional depth. That’s why a recent revelation about its behind-the-scenes experience shocked many.
A US-based influencer who worked as a set designer on the film shared her unpleasant experience. She said she was assigned to restore a diner used as an Indian restaurant in the movie but was severely underpaid for her work.
According to her, she worked 17–18 hours a day and earned only $75. She also revealed that men doing similar work were paid nearly twice as much.
The toxic and unfair work environment left such a strong impact that she eventually left the film industry. By sharing her story now, she hopes to shed light on the hidden struggles behind the glamour of filmmaking.
