After a prolonged wait, John Abraham’s highly anticipated action-thriller “Tehran” is finally set for release, but with a major twist. The film will skip a traditional theatrical run and premiere exclusively on the streaming platform ZEE5 on August 14, 2025, just in time for India’s Independence Day weekend. This direct-to-digital release, announced by the makers and the streaming platform, will bring John Abraham’s intense portrayal of a Delhi cop on a dangerous mission to audiences’ homes.
A Direct-to-Digital Release: “Tehran” Finds a Home on ZEE5
“Tehran,” which was originally slated for a theatrical release in early 2023, has now chosen the OTT route after facing significant delays. The decision to go straight to a streaming platform reflects the changing landscape of film distribution, where films with a strong concept and a niche audience find a perfect home on digital platforms. The move is a strategic one, capitalizing on the high viewership and patriotic sentiment surrounding the Independence Day weekend.
John Abraham as a Delhi Cop on a Foreign Mission
The film promises to be a high-octane geopolitical thriller, with John Abraham playing a character named ACP Rajeev Kumar, a Delhi Police officer thrust into a covert mission in a foreign land. The plot, reportedly inspired by true events, revolves around a bomb explosion in Delhi that sets off a chain of events, pulling Rajeev into a complex web of international espionage. The newly released poster shows Abraham in a rugged and bloodied avatar, hinting at a gritty, no-holds-barred action sequence. The tagline, “Hunted by Iran, Abandoned by Israel, Deserted by India,” further adds to the intrigue, suggesting a story of a lone patriot navigating a moral and political minefield.
Joining John Abraham in this intense narrative are former Miss World Manushi Chhillar and popular Punjabi actress Neeru Bajwa in pivotal roles. Manushi Chhillar’s character is reportedly a journalist with her own set of secrets, while Neeru Bajwa’s role is described as a morally grounded woman who holds her own against the chaos. The inclusion of such a diverse and talented cast from different industries is expected to enhance the film’s appeal and add depth to the intricate story.
Arun Gopalan’s Directorial Debut with Tehran
“Tehran” marks the directorial debut of Arun Gopalan, who is stepping into the director’s chair after working as a creative producer on several projects. Gopalan has stated that the film is a “mirror held up to a fractured world,” focusing on shifting loyalties and the human cost of global politics. He expressed his gratitude to the cast for their courage and authenticity in bringing the story to life, emphasizing that the film is more than just a spy thriller—it is a tense, adrenaline-charged ride that forces viewers to question their own beliefs.
A Maddock Films Production: Blending Action with Soul
The film is produced by Maddock Films in collaboration with Pacific Worldwide Films, Shobhna Yadav, and Sandeep Leyzell. Maddock Films, led by Dinesh Vijan, has a reputation for delivering films that are not only commercially viable but also have a strong narrative soul. Vijan, the producer of hit films like “Stree,” “Luka Chuppi,” and “Bala,” believes that “Tehran” focuses on the human element behind the headlines.
With its thrilling premise, star-studded cast, and a strategic release date, “Tehran” is set to captivate audiences with its gripping tale of patriotism, betrayal, and the human cost of global conflicts.
