Baby John: Bollywood stars Varun Dhawan, Keerthy Suresh on tackling sexual violence through new film, learning to speak Malayalam and more
Keerthy Suresh makes her Bollywood debut with Varun in this actioner, out in UAE now
Dubai: Indian actors Varun Dhawan and Keerthy Suresh are hoping to be agents of change with their latest provocative film, Baby John, which addresses the sobering subject of sexual violence against women and the quest for power. The movie, high on songs, stunts, and drama, is a remake of Tamil actor Vijay’s 2016 hit Theri and is jointly produced by Murad Khetani, Priya Atlee, and Jyoti Deshpande. It is out in UAE cinemas now.
However, the stars are clear about their approach. “We’re not here to preach or deliver sermons,” says Dhawan in an interview with Gulf News in Dubai.
“The film is about holding up a mirror to society and letting the audience draw their own conclusions," he adds.
National Award-winning actress and new bride Keerthy Suresh, who makes her Bollywood acting debut with this actioner, quips that the pair should ideally be labelled as “rebels with a worthy cause.”
Adding to the intrigue, this film sees Varun Dhawan speaking in Malayalam—a feat he describes as absolutely “nerve-wracking.” Playing the titular character who lives in Kochi, Kerala, with his young daughter, Dhawan’s low-profile life unravels when his violent past catches up with him. Speaking functional Malayalam came with the territory, and Dhawan jokes that speaking the language was as daunting as wearing a veshti (a traditional Kerala male attire) and managing potential wardrobe malfunctions.
Excerpts from my interview with the actors as we look back on their careers, milestones, and their hopes for 2025:
The film talks about sexual violence against women, a very sobering topic. How do you guys maintain that it doesn’t become too sensationalised?
Varun Dhawan: I think by not being too preachy and getting down to the brass tacks. Awakening happens only when a case occurs, or something happens in your life that you see directly. In the film, the characters are going about their lives, living normally, because something hasn’t hit close to home yet. But when it does—when something happens in your city or area—that’s when you awaken. That’s how it works in real life too. It’s not a preachy crusade, with one man going against the system. It’s about things happening close to home that cause an awakening.
Keerthy Suresh: Exactly. The film doesn’t try to sugarcoat anything. Instead, it reflects real-life dynamics, making it raw and relatable without overdoing the drama.
What about you, Keerthy? What kind of role are we looking at here, so it’s not reductive?
Keerthy: I can’t reveal too much about the character—we’re just four days away from the release—but I’ll say this: I play Meera, a doctor. She’s chirpy, emotional, and pivotal to the story. This role has everything I could have wished for in a debut.
Varun: I have always wanted to play a doctor because I have been such a huge fan of the series Scrubs! But am happy Keerthy got to do it.
They say marriage isn’t about women reforming badly raised men. Does the film explore this dynamic?
Varun: I will be honest, there was a point when I did think on those line. Now I have to correct myself because I’ve said this before: as kids, we grow up with mothers telling us what’s right and wrong, and we’re conditioned to think women will continue that role when we grow up. But as a parent now, I realize how flawed that thinking is. It’s not up to one parent—or the mother alone—to raise someone. It’s about what society teaches too and what we expose our kids to.
Keerthy: Exactly. It’s also about the exposure you give your child. In today’s global society, you decide what values and experiences you provide. Being a girl dad, Varun, you’ve definitely been in a protective zone, right?
Varun: Totally! I’ve become the clichéd Punjabi dad. When a mouse got into our house recently, I sent my wife and daughter to her mom’s house until I could deal with it. I didn’t want the mouse anywhere near my little one.
Reading about sexual violence can desensitise us. What should be done differently, and does the film offer any solutions?
Varun: The truth is, we talk about these issues and write a few words about them on social media, but then we move on. The reality is far harsher, and it’s often hidden from us. I had a lot of conversations with cops and encounter specialists while preparing for this role. They deal with heinous crimes and see the darkest sides of human behavior. Sometimes, setting an example becomes necessary to deter such acts.
Keerthy: The film presents two solutions: one extreme and one rooted in parenting. It leaves the audience to decide which approach resonates more. Prevention is obviously better than cure, but as a society, we have to be proactive in addressing these issues.
Should capital punishment be afforded to rapists?
Varun: The film offers some kind of solution, one that is very extreme. But it leaves the audience to choose. In certain scenarios, you’re not left with any other option. Extreme measures have been taken at times, and those examples are set when things go beyond control. But ultimately, this is a reflection of what’s happening in our society, and it’s up to the people to decide what’s better.
Keerthy: The film explores this complexity. There are times when you wonder what the right course of action is. It’s not just about punishment but also about addressing the root causes of such crimes. We had conversations with people from the judicial system, and while opinions varied, the narrative aims to present those nuances without leaning too heavily on one perspective.
Did the emotional weight of the film take a toll on you?
Varun: Absolutely. Some scenes, where we’re covered in dust, blood, and tears, were emotionally intense. You can’t help but feel vulnerable and raw in moments like that.
Keerthy: It was emotionally draining, especially during those heavy scenes. When I dubbed for those moments, I broke down. It’s hard to shake off that heaviness.
Do you think art should provoke change, or is it about blockbuster success?
Keerthy: Art should do both. Cinema is an entertainment medium, but it can also spark conversations and provoke thought without being preachy.
Varun: I agree. Once you reach a certain stage in your career, you have a responsibility to use your platform for good. It’s about finding the balance between fun and meaningful storytelling.
How would you describe 2024, personally and professionally?
Keerthy: It’s been phenomenal. I started the year with my Tamil release Ratata, then had my wedding, and now my Bollywood debut with Baby John. It’s been a whirlwind!
Varun: Becoming a dad and exploring a new genre made this year feel like my debut days in 2012. It’s been challenging but rewarding.
Lastly, Varun, how was delivering a Malayalam monologue in the film?
Varun: Nerve-wracking! There were so many Malayalis on set correcting my accent after every take. But I think it turned out well, and I hope the audience enjoys it.
Lastly, Varun, how was delivering a Malayalam monologue in the film?
Varun: Nerve-wracking! There were so many Malayalis on set correcting my accent after every take. But I think it turned out well, and I hope the audience enjoys it.
Sign up for the Daily Briefing
Get the latest news and updates straight to your inbox
