Karan extends his holiday for 'Kites'

He'll be in New York for his buddy Hrithik's international premiere

Karan Johar has extended his holiday in New York to attend the premiere of Hrithik Roshan-starrer 'Kites' at Times Square today (May 16).

"It's a big film for the Roshans who are very close to me and Shah Rukh (Khan). The success of 'Kites' is also very important to the film industry. I've a release 'I Hate Luv Storys' coming up in July. And if 'Kites' works, it'd mean favourable things for my films," Karan told IANS over the phone from New York.

The Hindi version of Hrithik and Mexican actress Barbara Mori-starrer 'Kites' will have its worldwide release May 21, while the crisp and short English version, edited by Brett Ratner, will hit the screens May 28. The film is produced by Rakesh Roshan and directed by Anurag Basu. Reliance Big Pictures is distributing the movie.

Karan recently released the shortened version of his film 'My Name Is Khan' in New York, and the edited version of 'Kites' will also be screened there.

"New York is an important venue for Bollywood. Shortened version of 'My Name Is Khan' was released here last week. Now it's a shortened international version of 'Kites'. So we are working towards the same goal of taking Bollywood to the West," said Karan.

Shah Rukh, who can't attend 'Kites' premiere as he's shooting for 'Ra.One', made sure his wife represents them both at this important occasion in the Roshans' life.

Gauri travelled to New York with Hrithik's better half Sussanne and they shopped before the grand premiere of 'Kites'.

"Gauri (Khan) and Sussanne Roshan are here. We're having the time of our lives. I am not thinking about work at all. Just enjoying myself," said Karan.

Incidentally, Karan had gone to New York with the express purpose of writing his next screenplay. But he has drawn a blank.

"At the moment I'm all geared for the 'Kites' premiere. I can't wait to see it," he said.