Mumbai, March 5 (PTI): Karan Johar announced today that he has become father to twins - a boy and a girl - who were born through surrogacy.

"I am ecstatic to share with you all the two most wonderful additions to my life, my children and lifelines; Roohi and Yash. I feel enormously blessed to be a parent to these pieces of my heart who were welcomed into this world with the help of the marvels of medical science," Johar, who is single, said in a statement.

While Johar has named his son after his late father, film producer Yash Johar, his daughter's name appears to be derived from that of his mother, Hiroo, who he said will play an important role in bringing up the twins.

The 44-year-old filmmaker said his work, travels and social commitments will have to take a back seat now and he is prepared for that. "By the grace of God, I have the most caring and supportive mother who will be an integral part in the up-bringing of her grandchildren and, of course, friends who are family," he said.

The decision had been taken after thought and preparation, taking into account the responsibilities and duties of being a parent, he said. "In order to arrive at this decision, I have prepared myself mentally, physically, emotionally and logistically to ensure that my children get all the unconditional love, care and attention from me and mine. I have submitted to the fact that my children are my world and priority," the statement said.

Johar thanked the surrogate mother, saying he would be eternally grateful to her as she has fulfilled his "lifelong dream and provided a warm, loving and nurturing environment to my children before bringing them into this world."

The film industry responded enthusiastically to the news, with actress Alia Bhatt the first to tweet her congratulations. "Finally I can say I have a younger brother AND sister!!! So so so happy! So much love to give uff bursting with joy," Alia tweeted.

Filmmaker Farah Khan tweeted: "Glad u took my advice seriously @karanjohar Best thing to happen to you...."