Is John Abraham’s ‘Tehran’ Rooted and Globally Relevant?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- John Abraham stars in a film that tackles complex geopolitical issues.
- Tehran is India's first international film.
- The narrative challenges traditional notions of good and evil.
- Strong female characters are pivotal in the film.
- It’s based on real-life events that have global implications.
Mumbai, Aug 1 (NationPress) Bollywood star John Abraham is set to unveil his latest streaming venture, ‘Tehran’, which he describes as a film that is both rooted in reality and possesses a global appeal.
‘Tehran’ is a gripping geo-political spy thriller featuring talents like Manushi Chhillar, Neeru Bajwa, and Madhurima Tuli. The narrative takes inspiration from actual events, set against the backdrop of rising tensions between Israel and Iran.
Regarding the film, John articulated, “Tehran is a film with a truly global essence—anchored in real occurrences yet resonating across borders. Portraying ACP Rajeev Kumar has been one of the most profound roles in my career because he represents more than a typical patriot. He embodies a character torn between his duties and his conscience, and that moral ambiguity is what makes this narrative so captivating. This film transcends the traditional good versus evil trope, focusing instead on navigating the grey areas.”
He added, “I take pride in being part of a project that bravely delves into these complexities, and I eagerly anticipate audiences experiencing it this Independence Day on ZEE5. I am also grateful to ZEE5 for offering a global stage for this film, as Tehran stands as India’s inaugural international feature.”
The plot draws from the 2012 bomb blast near the Israeli Embassy in Delhi, a real-life incident that led to intricate diplomatic repercussions. As ACP Rajeev Kumar (played by John Abraham) becomes enmeshed in a covert operation spanning continents and ideologies, the distinctions between right and wrong begin to blur.
Neeru Bajwa shared, “Tehran is a unique experience for me—a compelling storyline rich in emotional depth and political intricacy. What attracted me to this role was the strength and clarity of my character. She stands firm in her principles, even as chaos surrounds her. It’s a significant moment for me to portray a woman who is morally steadfast and unafraid to speak her truth in a narrative as intense and expansive as this. Tehran not only entertains but also stimulates thought, and I am honored to be part of such a bold and timely film.”
Director Arun Gopalan expressed, “Tehran acts as a mirror reflecting a fractured world. It’s a tale of shifting loyalties, blurred identities, and the human toll hidden within the shadows of global politics. We approached it with sincerity and restraint, as the truths it draws from are far from fictitious.”
“Every choice made by these characters carries significance; every silence and betrayal leaves an imprint. I am thankful to John, Manushi, and the entire cast for embracing this world with such bravery and authenticity. More than a spy thriller, Tehran is a tense, adrenaline-fueled journey that compels you to ponder: whose truth resonates with you?” he concluded.
Directed by Arun Gopalan, ‘Tehran’ is set to premiere on ZEE5 on August 14, 2025.