Slogan: “Unveiling History: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh Comes Alive”
Released on April 18, 2025, coinciding with the 106th anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh delves into a pivotal yet lesser-known chapter of India’s struggle for independence. Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, the film features powerhouse performances by Akshay Kumar as Justice C. Sankaran Nair, R. Madhavan as Adv. Neville McKinley, and Ananya Panday as Dilreet Gill. This historical courtroom drama is based on the book The Case That Shook The Empire by Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat, shedding light on the legal battle that challenged British colonial authority. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Plot Overview
Set in the aftermath of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, the film chronicles Justice C. Sankaran Nair’s courageous legal confrontation against the British Empire. Through intense courtroom sequences, the narrative exposes the brutalities of colonial rule and the resilience of those who dared to oppose it. The film not only portrays historical events but also emphasizes themes of justice, patriotism, and the enduring fight for truth.
Cast and Crew
| Role | Artist |
|---|---|
| Justice C. Sankaran Nair | Akshay Kumar |
| Adv. Neville McKinley | R. Madhavan |
| Dilreet Gill | Ananya Panday |
| Director | Karan Singh Tyagi |
| Music | Shashwat Sachdev, Kavita Seth–Kanishk Seth |
| Production | Dharma Productions, Leo Media Collective, Cape of Good Films |
Critical Reception
Kesari Chapter 2 has garnered a spectrum of reviews from critics and audiences alike. Bollywood Hungama rated the film 3.5/5, praising its hard-hitting courtroom drama and performances. Pinkvilla highlighted the film’s gripping narrative and stellar performances, noting its unflinching portrayal of a dark chapter in history. India Today appreciated the film’s departure from overt patriotism, focusing instead on nuanced storytelling. However, some critics, like those from The Hindu and Rediff.com, pointed out the film’s dramatization and historical inaccuracies. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
Box Office Performance
On its opening day, Kesari Chapter 2 collected approximately ₹7.5 crore at the box office. While the film received positive reviews, its commercial performance was modest, potentially influenced by its ‘A’ certification and the serious nature of its subject matter. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Soundtrack Highlights
The film’s soundtrack, composed by Shashwat Sachdev and Kavita Seth–Kanishk Seth, complements its historical narrative. Notable tracks include “O Shera – Teer Te Taj,” which resonates with the film’s themes of resistance and resilience. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
Audience Reactions
Viewers have expressed admiration for the film’s powerful storytelling and performances. Social media platforms are abuzz with praise for Akshay Kumar’s portrayal of Justice Nair and the film’s impactful courtroom scenes. One user on X (formerly Twitter) remarked, “Akshay Kumar is terrific, R Madhavan is brilliant, & Ananya Panday is superb in this cinematic masterpiece on Jallianwala Bagh.” :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
Frequently Asked Questions
- Q1: What is the release date of Kesari Chapter 2?
- A1: The film was released on April 18, 2025, aligning with the 106th anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
- Q2: Who are the lead actors in the film?
- A2: Akshay Kumar stars as Justice C. Sankaran Nair, with R. Madhavan and Ananya Panday in pivotal roles.
- Q3: Is Kesari Chapter 2 based on a true story?
- A3: Yes, the film is inspired by real events, focusing on Justice Nair’s legal battle against the British Empire following the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
- Q4: Where can I watch Kesari Chapter 2?
- A4: The film is currently available in theaters and will be streamed on JioHotstar after its theatrical run.
Conclusion
Slogan: “Echoes of Valor: Reliving the Fight for Justice”
Kesari Chapter 2 stands as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in the pursuit of justice and freedom. Through compelling performances and a gripping narrative, the film brings to light a significant yet often overlooked chapter of India’s history. While it may not be without its critiques, its contribution to historical cinema is undeniable.
