What would John Abraham like to gift dad Abraham John on Father’s Day? Besides “being a better son”, the Madras Cafe actor-producer would like to pamper his dad with that “rare gift” — time. An email chat with John, who is the face of the Johnnie Walker Blue Label #DateWithDad campaign. 
 
John Abraham and Abraham John... now that’s interesting! Is there a story behind the names?
Yes, there is a story. My father is from Kerala where one takes on his father’s name as the surname. Also, my godfather, who was my uncle, named me John, which happens to be my grandfather’s name. So my father is Abraham John and his surname is obviously John, because it was my grandfather’s name. My surname is Abraham, I could have been Alan Abraham like my brother but I was called John and hence the name John Abraham. 

This is the second edition of  #DateWithDad campaign...
The brand’s idea of giving a rare opportunity to those who wanted to thank their dad is so relatable and inspiring. We have all become so busy in our own lives that we have forgotten the essence of relationships and the value of rare and intimate moments with loved ones. I share a very special relationship with my father, he has been a constant source of inspiration and support throughout my life and this is a perfect opportunity for me to tell him what he means to me.

Have you always wanted to be the man your dad is?
Yes, but I am far from it. I admire my father for who he is. I’m proud to say he has shaped me into the man I am today. 

What are your favourite childhood memories revolving around your dad?
When I was growing up, I once used an expletive. He punished me by making me stand by the door for over three hours. It taught me to be respectful to people, and mindful of the language I use. Which is why it is a part of my DNA today. You will never catch me abusing or using expletives off guard. This little incident has shaped me into the individual I am today.

Has your relationship with your dad changed from being that of a father-son to more of a friend?
It has always been a combination of a father-son duo and a friend.

What do you bond over? Is he as crazy about soccer as you are?
We both are crazy about football and from childhood we have always been watching the World Cup together.

In the promotional video you share how your dad pepped you up when no one really thought you could make it big as a model. In a crisis, is he the first one you turn to for advice?
Even if my dad is not around when I need advice, I always think of what he has told me in the past and use that as my strength. But I believe that the most important thing like he says is self-conviction. In the industry that I am in, where people comment about you, the only thing that gets you through is self-conviction. I know where I stand, as I must have done something right to be here. 

Stardom is not easy to handle. Were there words of advice from your dad when you signed your first autograph?
He always said, ‘Son, always keep your feet on the ground and remember where you come from’ and that is exactly what I have always done... so all my friends, family is priority.

Which movie of yours does your dad love best?
Well, my dad likes Taxi No. 9211, Zinda, New York, Dostana, Force. 

How often do you catch a movie with him? 
We do not watch movies as much as we watch football matches together. But the one film that has deeply impacted me and which will stay with me is the very old film that I saw with him called Amadeus, which is on the life of Mozart.

What is your favourite son-dad moment from a film? 
My movie with Mr Bachchan, Viruddh. He was fantastic in it. 

The t2 girl gang is drooling over your fab ab pictures on Twitter? What kind of a fitness programme did you undergo to achieve that?
I still need to reach my goals, but more importantly, fitness is a way of life for me and not a phase of life. You will never hear about John Abraham building a body for a film, my body has to be in shape 365 days of the year. I am very disciplined and regimental to the point of being boring in my lifestyle. My trainers in the past told me that if you want to achieve extraordinary results, you have to do extraordinary things. 

Saionee Chakraborty
What’s your message for your dad on Father’s Day? Tell t2@abp.in