Movie Name: Kesari Chapter 2
Rating: 3/5
Cast: Akshay Kumar, Ananya Panday, R Madhavan and others
Director: Karan Singh Tyagi
Produced By: Aruna Bhatia – Amritpal Singh Bindra – Hiroo Johar – Karan Johar
Release Date: 18th April 2025

Akshay Kumar, who is facing continuous failures at the box office, has come up with a Courtroom drama/biopic Kesari 2. Kesari Chapter 2 draws inspiration from the book “The Case That Shook The Empire” by Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat. The film focuses on the lesser-known events following the Jallianwala Bagh massacre and highlights the struggle for justice spearheaded by C Sankaran Nair, a lawyer and former President of the Indian National Congress.

Story:

A peaceful protest against the Rowlatt Act takes place at Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar on April 13, 1919. General Reginald Dyer shows up with armed soldiers and unexpectedly commands them to shoot at the crowd. Thousands died in the incident, with their bodies exposed to scavengers like eagles and crows. Though the press keeps silent, public anger grows. The British rule finds a solution to this problem. On one side, it gives Rs 25 in compensation; on the other, it launches a bogus inquiry into the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. The British government establishes an investigation commission. Sir C Sankaran Nair, portrayed by Akshay Kumar, stands alone as an Indian who fully trusts British justice. The rest of the film is about what turns did the case took as Sankaran discovers the truth behind it and how he challenges the crown in the court. 

Performances:

At first, Akshay Kumar’s performance feels standard, but it enhances throughout the movie. Ananya Panday showcases confidence in her performance. Amit Sial shows cleverness that resonates well. As the defense attorney, Madhavan portrays Neville McKiney, a mixed heritage character, enhancing the film’s strength. The remaining actors, featuring the British roles, execute their parts flawlessly. 

Analysis:

Karan Singh Tyagi directs Kesari Chapter 2, which is based on the book, “The Case That Shook The Empire” by Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat. He does well, though a few parts appear exaggerated and boring. Starting with intensity, the film’s first half slows down before delivering an exciting second half with a court showdown between Akshay and Madhavan. There’s a slight feel of incompleteness before the climax, but it is shown that those scenes were planted wantedly to evoke the right emotions in the final court scene. 

Positives:

• Initial Episode
• Performances
• Second Half
• Climax

Negatives:

• Exaggerated Scenes that elevate Patriotism/Lead Character
• Few Dull Moments in the First Half
• Not So Effective Songs/Background Score

Kesari 2 Movie Review and Verdict:

Kesari Chapter 2 is a sincere patriotic drama based on real incidents. It may lack subtlety and appear dull at times, but it impresses with brilliant performances and a well-executed second half.