Siddharth P. Malhotra, the director of the 2024 film Maharaj, has recently opened up about his relationship with debutant Junaid Khan, son of Bollywood superstar Aamir Khan. In an exclusive interview in June 2025, Malhotra shared his thoughts on Junaid's performance in Maharaj, his subsequent film Loveyapa, and their bond.

Malhotra candidly admitted that he "didn't like" Loveyapa, Junaid's second film, which was released in 2025 and co-starred Khushi Kapoor. He stated that he had issues with the film for various reasons he preferred not to disclose, and that it "didn't work" for him. Despite his reservations about Loveyapa, Malhotra remains highly supportive of Junaid and confident in his abilities.

"Maharaj director Siddharth P Malhotra confesses, “I DIDN'T like Loveyapa…Junaid Khan is like my kid; protective about him…confident about his next film”".

Malhotra emphasized his close bond with Junaid, stating, "He's like my own kid and I am protective about him". He revealed that they speak every 4-5 days and that he had been honest with Junaid about his feelings regarding Loveyapa. Despite the film's shortcomings in Malhotra's eyes, he expressed optimism about Junaid's future projects, particularly his upcoming film Ek Din, co-starring Sai Pallavi, which is scheduled to release on November 7, 2025. Having seen Ek Din, Malhotra is confident that audiences will appreciate it.

Malhotra also recounted a humorous incident that occurred during a screening of Maharaj at Yash Raj Films (YRF) Studios. Junaid arrived at the screening in an auto-rickshaw, and the security guards initially refused him entry because they did not recognize him. Malhotra had to intervene and explain that Junaid was the hero of the film. He said, "Bolunko ki tu hero hai'!". Malhotra attributed the confusion to Junaid's humble mode of transportation, highlighting the actor's down-to-earth nature.

The film Maharaj faced initial hurdles with the Gujarat High Court temporarily halting its release due to concerns about potential misrepresentation of religious beliefs and the stirring of communal discord. The film is based on the historical Maharaj libel case of 1862. The court eventually lifted the stay, and the film was released on Netflix on June 21, 2024. The film received positive reviews, with many praising Junaid Khan's performance.

Malhotra expressed immense pride in Junaid's performance in Maharaj, especially considering it was his debut role. He noted Junaid's dedication and hard work, recalling how the actor would travel by auto-rickshaw for readings and rehearsals. Malhotra also shared that Junaid underwent rigorous training for a year, working with him and dialogue writer Sneha Desai to prepare for the demanding role.

Aamir Khan, Junaid's father, also spoke about his son's performance in Maharaj and Loveyapa. While acknowledging that Loveyapa did not perform well at the box office, Aamir expressed pride in Junaid's ability to embody his characters. He noted Junaid's sincerity and innocence in Maharaj, as well as his ability to portray a contrasting character in Loveyapa. Aamir also highlighted Junaid's independent spirit, mentioning that he has never sought his help and prefers to forge his own path.

Despite the mixed reception to Loveyapa, Siddharth P. Malhotra's comments reflect a deep affection and protectiveness towards Junaid Khan. His confidence in Junaid's future projects, coupled with Aamir Khan's unwavering support, suggests a promising career ahead for the young actor.