'Can't be flag-bearers for every issue': John Abraham on voicing opinion being a celebrity

With a long list of movies such as 'Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran', 'Batla House', 'Satyameva Jayate' among others mentioned as part of his filmography, it would be safe to say that Bollywood actor John Abraham likes to show his patriotic side through his films. 

And with another one slated for release this year -- 'Satyameva Jayate 2', starring him in the lead alongside Divya Khosla Kumar -- it was only appropriate that the actor spoke about the film on Republic Day. 

In a recent interview with Hindustan Times, John opened up about the film, his definition of patriotism and also spoke frankly about whether or not he finds it difficult to express his opinion on things happening in the country, openly.

Elaborating on what patriotism means to him, Joh told Hindustan Times, "I just think it starts with little things rather than beating your chest and being jingoistic. That's a basic thing. Basic prerequisites like tolerance, co-existence with others, these are important. It's very important that the secular fabric of the country should remain intact."

On being asked if he finds it difficult to express his opinion being a celebrity, the 'Parmanu' actor said, "As a celebrity, you can express yourself, you have got a platform, but you also must be prepared for the vitriol, negativity and toxicity that comes with it. If you are well prepared to take that, you must voice your opinion." 

He added, "On the other hand, there are issues close to my heart. There is no point in me voicing my opinion on every issue in the country so that I am learned and knowledgeable. I rather voice my opinion on certain issues without spreading myself too thin, because I know there are others voicing theirs on other issues. Someone on animals like me, I am sure someone else is doing it for children, farmers, many people raise their voices. We can't be flagbearers for every issue, and the public should not assume that we necessarily need to be that for all issue. As long as we all understand, that we are also limited like every other citizen of the country, and not endowed with superpowers, then it’s all fine."

Talking about his upcoming film, John said during the interaction that the one thing his 'patriotic' films won't have is an 'element of a lie in them'. "Honesty in playing a person who cares for his country comes naturally to me. The element of lie and trying too hard doesn’t exist in my films," he said. 

Earlier on Tuesday, John took to his social media handles to share a new still from his upcoming film, 'Satyameva Jayate 2', extending Republic Day wishes to his fans. The handsome hunk posed while holding the National Flag and announced the new release date of his film. 

John captioned the photo stating, "TANN MANN DHANN, se Badhkar JANN GANN MANN! The team of #SatyamevaJayate2 wishes everyone a Happy Republic Day! See you in cinemas this EID on 14th May 2021 @divyakhoslakumar @milapzaveri @onlyemmay @madhubhojwani @nikkhiladvani #BhushanKumar #KrishanKumar @emmayentertainment @tseriesfilms @tseries.official."

 

 

 

 

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The film is a sequel to 2018 film starring John alongside Manoj Bajpayee.

Interestingly, Satyameva Jayate 2 is set to clash with Salman Khan starrer Radhe: Your Most Wanted Bhai on the big screen. About a week ago, Khan made the announcement about Radhe's release date, the film which is directed by Prabhu Deva.