Let the fact be told. For Karan Johar, telling the tale of Gippi was important to him for reasons more than one. While he has maintained that the story being told is pretty much a catharsis for debutant director Sonam Nair, a little more insight into the genesis of this film reveals that there as a bit of Karan Johar as well in the tale that brought the prolific filmmaker on board.

"A few are aware of the fact that during his growing up years, even Karan Johar was overweight. Also, as the only child of his parents, he was a protected lot," informs a close associate, "You have to see him in Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge, where he plays Shah Rukh Khan's friend, to know how awkward he could have possibly been during his growing up years."

It required a lot of perseverance as well as desire to pick up responsibilities on the part of Karan Johar before things started falling in place for the youngster. The result was Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and from that point on there was no looking back for Karan who not just found a confidence boost for himself but also brought himself in very good shape. Also, he turned out to be a fashion conscious individual who knew more than just a tip or two about how to look good, something that has rubbed on his films as well as actors over the years.

When contacted, Karan admitted to Gippi being his own story in many ways. "Yes, for me it is a personal story from the times when I was overweight. So many children go through such a phase when they don't realize that some smart kids are also insecure. This film is talking to every child and parent out there that we all have a Gippi in us and we should just know how to deal with it," says Karan in an emotional tone. He goes on to add, "Gippi is a very relevant and identifiable film, especially in today's times. It shares good resonance to the childhood of all of us."