In Tehran, John Abraham draws on his Iranian heritage and language skills to deliver a grounded, layered performance.
MUMBAI: ZEE5 Global is set to premiere its high-stakes drama Tehran on August 14, with John Abraham in a role that is both intense and deeply personal. Directed by Arun Gopalan and produced by Maddock Films, the film will be available in over 190 countries, offering a gripping story that merges political tension with human drama.
In Tehran, John Abraham steps away from his signature big-budget action style to portray ACP Rajiv Kumar, a man caught in the crossfire of shifting loyalties and dangerous alliances. Drawing from his Iranian heritage through his mother, John revisited his cultural roots and grew up hearing Farsi at home. For the film, he went a step further — committing months to learning both Farsi and Hebrew to bring cultural authenticity to his performance.
The film’s narrative pushes ACP Rajiv Kumar into a web of geopolitical intrigue, forcing him to navigate between duty and personal conviction. John’s layered approach adds emotional resonance, capturing a man under immense pressure while maintaining a sense of vulnerability.
Alongside John, Manushi Chhillar plays S.I. Divya Rana, a determined young officer whose tenacity propels the mission forward, while Neeru Bajwa’s Sheilaja adds a grounded strength and complexity that heightens the drama. The ensemble cast, paired with sharp writing and immersive world-building, ensures that Tehran delivers not only suspense but also authenticity.
Streaming worldwide, Tehran blends action, emotional depth, and cultural nuance, positioning itself as one of ZEE5 Global’s most anticipated releases this year.


