Mumbai: People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India have recognised two Bollywood actors for their work for animals rights.
John Abraham, a longtime animal rights advocate, and 30-year-old Fatima Sana Shaikh have been named PETA India’s Most Beautiful Vegetarians of 2022.
PETA, the world’s largest animal rights organisation, seeks to end animal testing and promotes consideration of animal interests.
Its India chapter recognises the efforts of ‘Most Beautiful Vegetarian Celebrities of the year’, who take more than a token interest against animal abuse.
“John Abraham and Fatima Sana Shaikh speak up for animals in need and use their star power to inspire their fans to do the same,” said Sachin Bangera, PETA India’s vice-president of celebrity and public relations.
“PETA India is honouring them for showing the world how easy it is to make compassionate choices that protect animals, the environment and their own health,” Bangera added.
Fatima is a vocal celebrity animal rights champion who has time and again called for improving animal-care facilities in Mumbai, PETA India said in a news release.
The 50-year-old Abraham, who was earlier named PETA India Person of the Year, has relentlessly campaigned against abusive treatment of animals, “including teaming up with PETA India to successfully urge e-commerce website Quikr to stop permitting animal sales and urge e-ticketing platform BookMyShow to promote animal-free circuses only.”
Actor-producer Abraham, a National Film Award winner, is guardian to two adopted dogs Bailey and Sia,” PETA India noted.
PETA India used to recognise influential animal rights advocates with its Hottest Vegetarian Celebrity Award until 2020. Among winners of the title include Akshay Kumar, Anushka Sharma, Manushi Chhillar, Shahid Kapoor, Sonu Sood, Sunil Chhetri, Vidyut Jammwal and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.