Exclusive: John Abraham Comments on Kolkata Doctor Case Amidst Vedaa Promotions

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AUGUST 20,2024

John Abraham's latest film, Vedaa, is more than just a cinematic experience. It's a powerful indictment of the deep-rooted societal ills of casteism and gender-based violence. In a candid conversation with Radio City's RJ Salil, the actor delved deep into the film's message and its stark reflection of India's reality.

Vedaa: A brave film with a powerful message

Vedaa, based on true events, is a gritty portrayal of the life of a Dalit girl fighting against the oppressive forces of the upper caste. The film doesn't shy away from exposing the dark underbelly of rural India, where honour killings and caste-based discrimination are rampant. John Abraham's character, Abhimanyu, emerges as a symbol of hope, a champion for justice in a system that often turns a blind eye to suffering.

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When asked about the film's message, John asserted that delivering a strong social message takes precedence over commercial success. He said, 'Yeah, I think it is a brave film to do, very brave. Aur mai honestly keh raha hoon, success aur failure se jyada jo aap film me message de rahe ho, jo aap mudda utha rahe ho film mein, I think that's very important. We've told it in an entertaining way, lekin mudda toh mudda hi hai. Agar mudda bhaari hai, aur logon ko kuch bhaari dekhna pasand nahi hai toh wo unka choice hai aur main usko bohot respect karta hoon. Agar unko mudda face karna hota hai, they need to face it.' (In my honest opinion, the message of a film matters more than its failure or success. Although we've told it in an entertaining way, the message remains the same. The message could be a tough pill to swallow for some people, and I respect that.)

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A mirror to society's darkest corners

Vedaa doesn't flinch from depicting the horrific realities faced by women in India. A scene in the film where the female protagonist and her family endure brutal abuse is a stark reminder of the countless atrocities women suffer daily.

Reflecting on this, John shared, 'Salil, do you know how many rape cases are there in this country that are known? Unnao, Badaon, Kathua, and so many more... Shakti Mills, and you can go on and on and on. Toh humne unn saare cases pe kaafi research kara hai. And I think it's important to do that. As an actor, I do that. Kyon ki, it should even show in your silences, when you're sitting there and looking at this happening. Ek chappal ka scene hai, jo bohot hi powerful hai, shayad, it's my favourite scene hai in the film, but you're just a silent observer. So I think it's a brave film to do, and I'm very proud I did this film.'

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John Abraham comments on the recent case of violence against women

The film's exploration of these issues takes on added significance in light of recent, horrifying incidents of violence against women. When asked about the brutal rape and murder of a female doctor in Kolkata, John expressed his outrage and called for a change in mindset. 'I'll tell the boys to be otherwise, I'll tear them apart. Honestly, I just expect a better upbringing, on a serious note. I wouldn't tell girls anything, really. Kyon ki unki kya galti hai isme? I think parents have to tell their boys to behave, if you ask me, very honestly. More power, really more power to the girls,' he asserted.

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John Abraham's stance on these crucial issues positions him not just as an actor but as a voice for change. Vedaa is more than a film it's a call to action, urging society to confront its demons and work towards a more just and equitable future.