Saif Ali Khan – Bollywood is incomplete without Karan Johar..

The Actor Saif Ali Khan, who was present here on Monday along with Varun Dhawan and Karan for an IIFA 2017 press conference, has praised Karan Johar, saying that the Indian film industry is incomplete without the filmmaker.

When media persons asked the reason behind making such a statement, Saif quipped: “‘Baahubali…’ Can you imagine our film industry without that? He is one of those arteries in the blood flow of the film industry.”

The 46-year-old actor will  join Karan to host the 18th edition of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards in New York next month.

Karan, who was sitting next to him, thanked Saif for saying that. Looking back at his journey as a host, Karan said: “I realised I started hosting shows from 2000, which was a Filmfare award. It’s been 17 years! I am glad that every year I have managed to get the job! The experience is always good, as I enjoy whenever I am on stage.”

Karan’s directorial Ae Dil Hai Mushkil is the front-runner in the nomination pack of the 18th edition of the gala. Is he nervous?

“It is great to win it when you win but if you don’t, you should not care,” he said.

Karan, also said, the representation of Indian cinema has changed over the years from just being a song and dance industry. “There was a time when the West looked at Indian cinema as song and dance, which is far from the truth… Our films are also doing well abroad like the recent success of ‘Dangal’ in China.

Karan also said he has previously hosted award shows, and had a great time playing emcee with Shah Rukh Khan.

Saif also said that he wants to host a show with superstar Shah Rukh Khan. He said: “It will be fun! He is so clever, I would live to host a show with him.”

“I think we have come a long way from what the perception was and the reality is today. Also, we have actors doing phenomenal work,” he said.

Varun, who was sitting next to Saif, said: “I would love to watch you (Saif) and Shah Rukh working together on-screen.”