John Abraham recently made headlines when reports came in that he is planning to reboot his Force franchise, and now a new update suggests that the actor is in advanced talks with Tehran director Arun
Gopalan for a film set against the backdrop of India’s biggest mythological legend, the Mahabharata.
As per Pinkvilla, a source has revealed that John Abraham is planning to star in a film that gives Mahabharata a modern touch. “John Abraham has been discussing a film set against the backdrop of the Mahabharata but in the modern era. Director Arun Gopalan (Tehran fame) has developed a script of Mahabharata in the modern era, and John is bowled over by the screenplay and vision that Arun has to adapt the greatest story of all time in modern times,” the portal quoted a source as saying.
With claims of the movie being tentatively titled Duryodhana, it is set to roll in the middle of 2026. The source added, “It will be produced by John Abraham and Sandeep Leyzell, and the pre-production work will begin by early next year, with the intent to go on floors around June 2026.”
As per the source, John is planning multiple films under his own banner. “John is focusing on high-concept action films and wants to do things that provide a new experience to the cinema-going audience. More on his slate of films will be revealed in due course of time.”
John Abraham’s last film, Tehran
Produced by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films and directed by Arun Gopalan, Tehran stars Abraham alongside Manushi Chhillar. The screenplay, written by Ritesh Shah and Ashish Prakash Verma, explores the complex geopolitical dynamics involving Russia, Ukraine, China, Iran, and Palestine. Abraham has described it as a “stunning” and “gripping” film that blends action with layered global themes.
John Abraham’s work front
Abraham’s upcoming projects include Rohit Shetty’s biopic on former Mumbai Police Commissioner Rakesh Maria, the superhero film Munkeeman, a potential Pathaan spin-off focused on his character Jim, and Garam Masala 2. Reportedly, John Abraham is also set to return to the big screen with the third instalment of the Force franchise.
