John Abraham is gearing up for his new film Tehran, inspired by the 2012 attacks on Israeli diplomats. Recently, he opened up about nationalist films like Chhaava and The Kashmir Files that have made waves
at the box office but often stir controversy. Speaking with India Today, John shared why he resists jumping on that bandwagon.
John Abraham on films like Chhaava and The Kashmir Files
John said, “We need censorship, but the way it has been overseen… it’s a bit question mark. They have been good with us, but I have also been responsible with the way I have made my films. I am not right or left wing. I am apolitical.”
While these films enjoy massive audiences, John remains cautious about the message his films send. “What is worrying to me is that right-wing films find a huge audience and that’s when you ask yourself as a filmmaker what line will you toe — Am I going to take the commercial line or I’m going to stay true to what I want to say — and I have chosen the latter.”
When asked about whether he’s tempted to make films like Chhaava or The Kashmir Files, John was clear. He said, “I haven’t seen Chhaava, but I know that people have loved it and also The Kashmir Files. When films are being made with the intent to sway people in a hyper political environment and such films find an audience, that is scary for me. To answer your question, no, I have never been tempted, and I will never make those kind of films.”
About Vicky Kaushal’s Chhava
Chhaava, starring Vicky Kaushal, is a historical drama that tells the story of Sambhaji Maharaj, the second ruler of the Maratha Empire, and his struggle against Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The film explores themes of bravery, loyalty, and sacrifice, showcasing Sambhaji’s fight to protect his kingdom and people. Despite becoming one of the biggest hits of the year with box office earnings nearing Rs 800 crore, Chhaava has faced criticism for its historical inaccuracies, with some viewers calling the portrayal “half-baked.”
Meanwhile, The Kashmir Files has sparked debate while winning a National Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration.
John Abraham Upcoming Films
John Abraham’s upcoming film Tehran is set to premiere on ZEE5 on August 14, 2025. Directed by Arun Gopalan and produced by Maddock Films, this geopolitical thriller is inspired by the 2012 bombing near the Israeli Embassy in New Delhi, which injured Israeli diplomat Tal Yehoshua Koren. The story follows ACP Rajeev Kumar (played by John Abraham) as he gets involved in a high-stakes international mission involving India, Israel, and Iran. Due to geopolitical sensitivities surrounding Iran and Israel, Tehran will skip a theatrical release, which John described as “heartbreaking” for him as an actor. Despite this, the film promises to offer a gripping narrative rooted in real-world events and showcases John Abraham’s dedication to intense, issue-driven roles.
