Karan Johar set to focus on kids now

Films for kids are perhaps tougher to make than any other. In recent times, apart from Taare Zameen Par, Stanley Ka Dabba and Chillar Party, few have made a mark in the genre. Maybe that is why, Karan Johar has decided to take up the challenge with his next. We have learnt that Dharma Productions' 'Gippy', to be directed by Sonam Nair, is all about kids.
KJo films till date have dealt mostly with adult themes like extra marital affairs in Kabhi Alvidaa Na Kehna, homosexuality in Dostana, terrorism in Kurbaan or its casualties in My Name Is Khan. Even his lighter films have generous doses of sassy romance (Kuch Kuch Hota Hai) or comedy (Duplicate). With Gippy, the filmmaker will however explore uncharted territory.
We found out Delhi-based Riya Vij, 13, has been roped in to play the title role in the film. According to a source, debutant director Sonam auditioned several youngsters across several cities. "She personally went through profiles. But eventually finalised Riya from Delhi. Unlike many, Riya has no experience in front of the camera. She has never done television commercials either. She fit the role of Gippy to the T," said the source.
Interestingly, Sonam, who assisted Ayan Mukerji in Wake Up Sid is the first female director to be launched by the production house. The source revealed, "A major portion of the film has already been shot in a school in Shimla. It is a small-budget venture. They are currently shooting in Mumbai. Ten more days and they will wrap it up."
Karan, who is reportedly quite kicked about entering a new genre, remained unavailable for comment.