Bollywood actor-producer John Abraham has urged the government to end use of animals in circus performances.

On behalf of animal rights organisation PETA (People for Ethical Treatment of Animals) India, John has written a letter to Jayanthi Natarajan, Minister for Environment and Forests, urging her to make all circuses in India animal-free.

In the letter, John has pointed out that animals in circuses are routinely beaten and forced to perform unnatural tricks against their will.

"Unlike human performers, animals are forced to entertain through the use of fear, pain or hunger. Whips, clubs, hooks and other weapons are often used to inflict pain on elephants and other animals in order to force them to perform confusing tricks, " reads John's letter.

"I hope you will look into your heart and make the compassionate choice by issuing an immediate ban on the use of all animals in circuses, " he added.