Anupam Kher & Tusshar Kapoor Unveil Dr. Raj Bothra’s Memoir ‘USA v Raj’ in Mumbai; Film Adaptation with Kabir Bedi Announced

Padma Shri Dr. Raj Bothra’s incredible life story has now been immortalized in a memoir and soon, on the big screen. His book USA v Raj was officially launched in Mumbai at JW Marriott in the presence of veteran actor Anupam Kher, actor Tusshar Kapoor, and several other dignitaries. The evening was not just about celebrating a book it was about resilience, truth, and justice finding its way, no matter how long it takes.

A Journey from Darkness to Justice

Dr. Bothra, a celebrated surgeon and interventional pain specialist, faced a life-shattering ordeal in December 2018 when he was arrested by the FBI in the United States on charges that were later proven false. For 1,301 days, he endured wrongful imprisonment, his family torn apart, businesses shut down, and his entire life upended.

In June 2022, a jury of twelve ordinary Americans unanimously acquitted him, marking the end of a painful chapter. But for Dr. Bothra, the fight for justice didn’t just end in court—it inspired him to write USA v Raj, a memoir that exposes systemic flaws, calls for reform, and delivers a deeply moral message about dignity, justice, and courage.

The Grand Book Launch in Mumbai

At the Mumbai launch, actors Anupam Kher and Tusshar Kapoor unveiled the memoir, calling it a story that everyone must read.

Anupam Kher shared his thoughts, saying:

“I have known Dr. Raj Bothra and his wife, Pammi, for over 30 years. He is an extraordinary human being because of the social work he has done in India. When I heard the FBI had taken him on false charges, I was shocked. But now that justice has prevailed, I appreciate his courage more than anything. I request everyone to read his book USA v Raj—his story proves that brown lives matter.”

Tusshar Kapoor added:

“I’ve known Dr. Bothra for 36 years. Nothing can describe what he went through, but the book does justice to it. His life proves tough times don’t last, but tough people do. The universe perhaps chose him to set an example of courage for all of us.”

Dr. Bothra, visibly emotional, said his book is a call to conscience:

“If I had no idea of a cruel judicial system, I am sure most common people in America are not aware either. Next could be anybody. The biggest challenge we face is changing the culture of ‘winning at any cost.’ That change must come from within us.”

Film Adaptation Announced

Alongside the book launch came another big announcement—USA v Raj will be adapted into a feature film.

• Kabir Bedi will essay the role of Dr. Raj Bothra, bringing his gravitas and emotional depth to the screen.

• Ravi K. Chandran, acclaimed filmmaker and cinematographer, will direct the movie.

• Emily Shah (‘Jungle Cry’) will portray Sonia Bothra, Dr. Bothra’s daughter.

• Ankur Bhatia (‘Aarya’) is also part of the cast.

• The film is being produced by Prashant Shah of Bollywood Hollywood Productions in collaboration with Twickenham Productions.
  

The screenplay and dialogues are being handled by Zill-e-Huma, Shubho Deep Pal, Hussain Dalal, and Abbas Dalal, inspired directly from the memoir. Sound design will be done by Oscar-winner Resul Pookutty.

The film will be shot across India and the UK, reflecting the cross-continental sweep of Dr. Bothra’s extraordinary journey.

A Life of Service Beyond Medicine

Before his wrongful arrest, Dr. Bothra dedicated his life to healing and philanthropy. He worked with the Nargis Dutt Foundation, Mother Teresa Foundation, and championed awareness campaigns against AIDS, alcohol, and nicotine abuse. He collaborated with global icons including Indian prime ministers, U.S. presidents, Pope John Paul II, and Mother Teresa. His contributions earned him the Padma Shri, awarded during Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s administration by President K. R. Narayanan.

USA v Raj is not just a memoir it is a mirror held up to society, asking us to reflect on justice, humanity, and moral courage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the central theme of Dr. Raj Bothra’s memoir USA v Raj?

The book highlights Dr. Bothra’s wrongful arrest and 1,301-day imprisonment in the United States on charges later proven false. It explores themes of justice, resilience, dignity, and how one man’s courage can stand up to an unjust system.

2. Why was Dr. Raj Bothra arrested in the United States?

In December 2018, the FBI arrested Dr. Bothra on allegations that were later found baseless. Despite being a renowned surgeon and philanthropist, he endured nearly four years of wrongful imprisonment before being acquitted in June 2022.

3. Who will star in the film adaptation of USA v Raj?

Veteran actor Kabir Bedi will play Dr. Raj Bothra. Actress Emily Shah will portray his daughter Sonia Bothra, while actor Ankur Bhatia also joins the cast. The film will be directed by Ravi K. Chandran and produced by Prashant Shah of Bollywood Hollywood Productions.

4. Where can I buy Dr. Raj Bothra’s book USA v Raj?

The memoir is available in India at major bookstores and online platforms like Amazon and Flipkart. It will also be distributed internationally for readers in the U.S. and UK.

5. Why is Dr. Bothra’s story relevant to readers today?

Dr. Bothra’s ordeal reflects larger issues of racial bias, flaws in the U.S. justice system, and the human cost of wrongful imprisonment. His story is not just personal—it raises universal questions about truth, fairness, and the fight for dignity.

6. What message does USA v Raj give to its readers?

The book emphasizes that “tough times don’t last, but tough people do.” It is a call for moral courage, reminding readers that justice may be delayed but can prevail if one stands strong.