‘The Diplomat’ is about rescue of an Indian girl from forced marriage in Pakistan: John Abraham

Noted Bollywood actor John Abraham made headlines following his performance in ‘Dhoom’ by Yashraj Films. His role not only made him very popular but also turned ‘Dhoom’ into a commercial hit at the box office.

The catchy tune of “Dhoom Macha Le Dhoom” resonated with the masses, further solidifying his fanbase. Prior to this success, he showcased his talent in ‘Jism’, directed by the renowned actor and film maker-Pooja Bhatt, daughter of famous director Mahesh Bhatt.

Born and raised in Mumbai, John pursued his education at the Bombay Scottish School and graduated in Economics from Jai Hind College before obtaining an MBA. His cultural heritage is a blend of Malayali from his father and Parsi from his mother, Firoz Rani. He tied the knot with Priya Runchal from McLeodGanj, an investment banker in January 2014.

Acknowledged for his remarkable acting prowess, John earned the Best Debut Filmfare award for ‘Jism’. He later received two Filmfare awards for his antagonistic roles in ‘Dhoom’ and ‘Zinda’. Following these successes, he graced several critically acclaimed and commercially successful films. His most recent appearance in ‘Pathan’, alongside acclaimed actors Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone, garnered admiration from the audience for his performance.

Apart from his acting career, John is a proficient producer, associated with commercial and critically successful films such as Vicky Donor and Madras Cafe, and now heads his production company – JA Entertainment.

Renowned for his action-packed roles in Bollywood, John Abraham is also a pet lover who leads a modest lifestyle. He maintains a close connection with children and actively supports the Smile Foundation, a non-governmental organisation.

Despite his celebrated status, the actor remains grounded and approachable, often seen interacting comfortably with his fans, particularly displaying his affection for children.

In his upcoming ventures, John is set to feature in three films: ‘The Diplomat’, ‘Tehran’, and ‘Raakh’.

In an interview with Patriot, John Abraham sheds light on his upcoming projects The Diplomat, Tehran and Raakh and provides insights into his life.

EXCERPTS:

What kind of role are you playing in ‘The Diplomat’?

In ‘The Diplomat’, I play the lead role that requires a different approach compared to my previous films. I have prepared extensively for this distinct character.

What is the movie all about?

The film narrates the story of an Indian diplomat striving to repatriate an Indian girl from Pakistan, where she was coerced into an unwanted marriage. It’s based on a true incident.

Who else is acting in this film?

Alongside me, actors like Kumud Mishra, Sharib Hashmi, and Sadia Khateeb play significant roles. The movie also features talented artists including Ashwath Bhatt, Late Ram Gopal Bajaj, Jagjeet Sandhu, Benjamin Gillani, Bhawani Muzamil, among others.

How was the experience working with Shivam Nair (director) of ‘The Diplomat’?

Director Shivam Nair, known for his expertise in Bollywood and television, possesses immense cinematic knowledge. Because of his creative acumen and understanding of the craft, he extracts the best from actors.

What about the film ‘Tehran’ and its director?

‘Tehran’ is directed by Arun Gopalan, who previously assisted director Sriram Raghvan in ‘Agent Vinod.’

Please share some details about ‘Raakh’?

Raakh is primarily an action-packed film helmed by director Milap Zaveri, recognised for works like Satyameva Jayate 20, Kaante, and Shootout at Wadala. In your youth, did you aspire to pursue something other than acting?

Surprisingly, I was drawn to archaeology. I harboured a keen curiosity about our ancient history, monuments, and the Harappan civilisation.

Could you share a fond childhood memory?

Sports, particularly football, captivated me. Despite being mischievous, I had a profound love for playing football while my brother excelled in academics.

Your experience working alongside Manoj Bajpayee? Acting alongside Manoj Bajpayee in Satyamev Jayate was enriching. He’s a talented actor, and each collaboration serves as a learning opportunity for me.

How do you feel about the audience’s appreciation for your film Satyameva Jayate and do you believe its message holds significance for children?

Working in Satyameva Jayate was a tremendous learning experience for me. I found immense joy in being a part of this film, and it’s incredibly satisfying when my audience and fans appreciate my performance. I’m sincerely grateful to them for their support. As for the film’s message, I firmly believe it holds great importance for children. The phrase ‘Satyameva Jayate’ embodies the significance of following the right path and embracing honesty. Initially challenging, this approach proves beneficial in the long run. My advice to all children is to transcend divisions of religion, caste, or creed and treat everyone as a fellow Hindustani.

Your involvement in social work – any thoughts to share?

Engaging with children and advocating for social causes are paramount to me. I frequent children’s homes during my spare time. Moreover, I am an ardent motorcycle enthusiast, nurturing a collection of different motorcycles.

Tell us about your football team?

I am the owner of the Indian Super League Football Team Northeast and aspire to establish an academy with top-notch facilities to nurture young talents.

How do you maintain your fitness and adhere to specific dietary habits while also expressing your affection for pets?

Staying fit is crucial in the film industry, and I dedicate ample time to exercise at the gym as a routine part of my actor’s lifestyle. Diet plays a pivotal role for me, as I prioritise eating to fuel my energy levels throughout the day. Additionally, I am particular about maintaining a healthy lifestyle. On another note, I am a devoted pet lover and take pride in owning two dogs. Advocating for animal rights is significant to me, and I urge others to love and protect animals.

This is the age of social media. How do you feel about the medium?

Social media holds both positive and negative aspects. While I prioritise my professional commitments in the film industry, I refrain from sharing personal details on social platforms. Nonetheless, I cherish meeting and interacting with fans and audiences.

Any memorable experiences from your visits to Delhi?

Delhi holds a special place in my heart, as I receive immense love and warmth from my fans there. Their support motivates me to continually strive to entertain and connect with them through my work.