Rohit Shetty is expanding his famous Cop Universe once again — and this time, it’s John Abraham stepping into the boots of a real-life police legend. The actor will portray former Mumbai Police Commissioner Rakesh Maria, a name synonymous with some of India’s most complex and high-profile investigations.
From Ajay Devgn’s Singham to Akshay Kumar, Ranveer Singh, Tiger Shroff, and Deepika Padukone — Shetty’s cinematic law enforcement universe has been star-studded. Now, with John Abraham playing Rakesh Maria, Shetty is bringing authenticity and intensity to a real-life inspired cop saga.
Who Is Rakesh Maria?
Rakesh Maria, born on January 19, 1957, in Bandra, Mumbai, is a retired Indian Police Service (IPS) officer from the 1981 batch. He is best known for leading investigations into major cases such as:
- The 1993 Mumbai serial bomb blasts
- The 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks (26/11)
- The controversial Sheena Bora murder case
He served as the Commissioner of Police, Mumbai, and his sharp investigation skills earned him a formidable reputation. Maria also authored a book titled “Let Me Say It Now”, offering firsthand accounts of his intense experiences within the police force.
Family Background of Rakesh Maria
Rakesh Maria comes from a family with cinematic roots. His father, Vijay Maria, was a film producer. Maria is married to Preeti Maria, a successful businesswoman. The couple has two sons — Kunal Maria and Krish Maria. Despite his public service, Maria has kept his personal life relatively private.
Inside the Movie: John Abraham and Rohit Shetty’s Action-Packed Collaboration
The upcoming film is currently being shot at Elora Studios in Mira Road, following outdoor schedules across South Mumbai. According to reports by Mid-Day, the movie includes five high-octane action sequences, with filming expected to wrap by the end of August 2025.
The film, still untitled, is set for a 2026 theatrical release and aims to balance gripping police drama with factual storytelling. By casting John Abraham, known for his tough-guy roles, Rohit Shetty is clearly positioning this project as a standout addition to his Cop Universe — blending action, realism, and a tribute to a national hero.
