At a recent screening of Om Ka Hari, Alia Bhatt opened up about her childhood with filmmaker father Mahesh Bhatt. She shared a hilarious memory that perfectly captured his dramatic and larger-than-life parenting style.
Describing her father, Alia called him “highly theatrical and highly entertaining.” Moreover, she revealed how his unusual approach to parenting often turned simple moments into unforgettable memories.
Alia’s Unforgettable Spelling Test
Alia went back to her first-standard school days while sharing the story. At the time, she was nervous about an upcoming spelling test.
Surprisingly, her biggest worry was forgetting how to spell the word “the.” So, she turned to her father for help.
However, Mahesh Bhatt did not use a conventional teaching method. Instead, he transformed the spelling lesson into a dramatic performance.
Mahesh Bhatt Turned Learning Into Drama
Alia recalled her father using exaggerated gestures to make sure she remembered the spelling. She jokingly compared his dramatic behaviour to that of a “grizzly bear.”
Yet, the unusual technique clearly worked. Years later, Alia still remembers the moment with a smile.
More importantly, the story offers a glimpse into the bond between the father and daughter. What started as a simple spelling lesson eventually became a cherished childhood memory.
A Childhood Memory With a Bigger Meaning
Interestingly, Alia’s story also connects with the central theme of Om Ka Hari. The film explores the complicated relationship between a father and son.
While love can run deep within families, expressing it is not always easy. Therefore, the film focuses on emotions that often remain unspoken.
Alia’s anecdote adds a personal touch to that idea. After all, family affection does not always appear through serious conversations. Sometimes, it comes through funny, dramatic or completely unexpected moments.
What Is Om Ka Hari About?
Directed by Harish Vyas, Om Ka Hari follows the relationship between Om and Hari. The father and son often find themselves on opposite sides because of their different views and expectations.
Their generational differences create plenty of conflict. At the same time, they also lead to humorous and emotional situations.
The story takes a major turn when Hari believes he has only a few days left to live. He then decides to travel to Varanasi.
Om joins him on the journey. Gradually, the trip becomes much more than a physical journey.
A Journey Filled With Emotions
As the father and son travel together, they begin confronting their past. They also face old disagreements and unresolved emotions.
Slowly, their journey gives them an opportunity to understand each other better. More importantly, they begin facing the things they have struggled to say.
At its heart, Om Ka Hari asks a simple question: When was the last time you told your father, “I love you”?
Through comedy and drama, the film explores the importance of expressing affection before it is too late.
Harish Vyas Explores Love Again
For director Harish Vyas, Om Ka Hari continues his exploration of love and emotional expression.
His debut film, Angrezi Mein Kehte Hain, focused on a married couple and their struggle to express love after years of marriage. Meanwhile, Hum Bhi Akele Tum Bhi Akele explored love and friendship.
Now, Vyas turns his attention to the father-son relationship. This time, he explores a bond where love can exist strongly but remain difficult to express.
Alia’s Story Adds a Personal Touch
Against this backdrop, Alia’s childhood memory feels especially relatable. Her story shows how the smallest family moments can stay with us for years.
A dramatic reaction. A funny lesson. A parent’s unusual way of helping.
These moments may seem ordinary at the time. However, they can eventually become some of our most treasured memories.
Soni Razdan Stars in the Film
The screening was also special for Alia because her mother, veteran actress Soni Razdan, stars in Om Ka Hari.
The film brings together comedy, drama and family emotions. It also explores the generational differences that can create distance between loved ones.
Produced by First Ray Films, Om Ka Hari is scheduled to release in theatres on September 18, 2026.
A Story About Family, Love and Unspoken Feelings
Alia Bhatt’s story about Mahesh Bhatt shows that parenting does not always follow a predictable script. Sometimes, the most theatrical moments become the ones children remember forever.
Similarly, Om Ka Hari looks at the emotions hidden behind family disagreements. Ultimately, its message centres on the importance of saying what we feel before an opportunity slips away.
Will Om Ka Hari remind you of your own relationship with your parents? Catch the film in theatres from September 18 and discover its emotional journey.
Where to Watch / Shop
Watch Bollywood on Amazon
As an Amazon Associate, Awesome TV earns from qualifying purchases.
