John gets sporty!

John gets sporty!

The actor's next three productions are based on the lives of sportsmen

Harshada Rege

John Abraham is one actor who puts his money where his mouth is. The actor believes in being fit and that sports education should be part of the curriculum in schools. He's not just a sports enthusiast, but also a co-owner of Delhi Waveriders, which won the Hockey India League this year. On the movie front, after putting his weight behind films like Vicky Donor and Madras Cafe, the actor is now seeking inspiration from the world of sports. Three of the films that he is producing will focus on sports and sportsmen, who have been recognised for their achievements. He says, "I've always strongly supported sports and fitness and with these films I attempt to put the spotlight on subjects
that have long been ignored in India."

No cricket
When asked if these films will be made back-to-back, he says, "We are still in the pre-production stage and these projects are on paper for now." The actor knows that none of these are formula films, but is keen to make a movie that in Bollywood language would be called hatke. He says, "I believe that content is king. Audiences are evolving and as filmmakers we shouldn't take their intelligence for granted." However, none of the three inspiring tales come from the world of cricket. It's especially surprising considering the fact that one of John's good friend is Mahendra Singh Dhoni (a movie on MSD's life is already being planned by Neeraj Pandey). Though the actor doesn't have any plans to make a movie based on cricket or cricketers as of now, he says he could probably attempt that in the future.

Footie fever
John starred in Dhan Dhana Dhan Goal (2007) directed by Vivek Agnihotri. It was based on football. Bipasha Basu was seen opposite him in the film that failed to create any buzz at the box-office. Now the actor will be seen playing football on screen once again, but this time Shoojit Sarcar will be in the director's seat. The movie titled 1911 is a true story about the Mohun Bagan team. The movie, which has been written by Soumik Sen (director of Gulaab Gang), is based on Mohun Bagan's victory over East Yorkshire Regiment in 1911. They became the first native team to have won the IFA Shield by defeating Yorkshire. The Indian players were dressed in dhotis and were barefeet, while the British wore shorts and boots.

Throwing a punch
Wrestle-mania: Next on John's list is Gama Pehlwan. The movie will be directed by Parmeet Sethi and is another real-life story based on the life of wrestler Ghulam Muhammad Butt, who was popularly known as the Great Gama. After Independence in 1947, Gama moved to the newly created state of Pakistan. The John Bull Belt winner remained unbeaten till death in his career spanning over 50 years. The actor certainly has the physique for the role and we're sure he'll bulk up some more.

Professional racing
Dhoom again? John will take his love affair with bikes a step further by paying the mean machines an ode through a film. In December, the actor posted a tweet that read, We need a serious film on motorcycle racing... Am planning one!!! Need feedback'. The post was followed by a picture of the International Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy), which is known to be extremely dangerous because of the high speeds on narrow, twisting streets and lanes flanked by stone walls and buildings. After Dhoom 2, this will be John's second ride on bikes in films.