Actor John Abraham recently expressed his views on censorship and the difficulties it creates for filmmakers. In an exclusive conversation with India Today’s Rajdeep Sardesai, the 52-year-old discussed the obstacles he faced in securing approval for his film, Tehran, to be publicly screened, emphasizing the challenges filmmakers deal with in balancing political sensitivities and maintaining their creative integrity.
John Abraham thanked the Ministry of External Affairs for permitting the screening of Tehran saying, “I don’t think this film (Tehran) would have passed to be shown in theatres, to be very honest. I’m grateful to the Ministry of External Affairs.” His remarks shed light on the bureaucratic procedures that can impact a film’s release.
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When the consulting editor inquired if he would rather have no censor board or just minimal censorship, the actor stressed the importance of censorship but questioned how it is currently enforced. He remarked, “I think you need censorship, but the way it’s being overseen, you know, could be a big question mark,” indicating the need for a balance between creative freedom and regulatory control.
He further stated, “Till now, they’ve been good and kind with us, and I’ve been responsible with the way I’ve made and spoken in my films. For the record, I’m not right-wing, I’m not left-wing – I’m apolitical, but politically aware. And it’s important for me to make an honest statement.”
