Kesari Chapter 2 Movie Review:
Akshay Kumar Leads a Fierce Courtroom Battle for Justice
Cast: Akshay Kumar, R. Madhavan, Ananya Panday, Amit Sial, Simon Paisley Day, Regina Cassandra
Director: Karan Singh Tyagi
Language: Hindi
Where to Watch: Theatrical Release
Runtime: 135 minutes
What Works:
Strong performances, especially Akshay Kumar’s commanding presence
Powerful courtroom drama rooted in historical fact
Intense and emotional cinematography, particularly the Jallianwala Bagh scenes
Authentic costumes and soul-stirring background music
What Could Be Better:
R. Madhavan’s character deserved a deeper emotional arc
Some British characters feel clichéd in their portrayal
Kesari Chapter 2 Review
In one of the film’s most unforgettable moments, Akshay Kumar’s C. Sankaran Nair stands defiant in court and declares:
“These Britishers treat us worse than animals. Their signs say it all – ‘Indians and dogs not allowed.’ According to them, we can gather like cattle, but we can’t have a nation of our own.”
He follows this with a fierce outburst directed at General Dyer: “Get the hell out of my country!”
It’s a scene that not only defines the soul of the film but resonates with every viewer who carries even a drop of patriotism.
Kesari Chapter 2 brings to life a chilling chapter from India’s freedom struggle—the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of April 13, 1919. What was meant to be a peaceful gathering to protest the Rowlatt Act on Baisakhi turned into a bloodbath as British troops, led by General Dyer, opened fire on unarmed civilians. The massacre was followed by silence, fear, and the British narrative labeling the victims as ‘terrorists.’
Enter C. Sankaran Nair, a high-ranking official in the British establishment, knighted on the very day of the massacre. His awakening sets the tone for the film’s legal drama, where he becomes the voice of truth against colonial cruelty. He teams up with a spirited lawyer, Dilreet Gill (Ananya Panday), and faces off against Neville McKinley (R. Madhavan), a British attorney manipulated into believing Nair is his enemy.
Script and Direction:
Director Karan Singh Tyagi doesn’t waste a moment in transporting us to the emotional and political landscape of 1919. The attention to historical detail, especially in the investigation scenes, is commendable. The narrative dives into Dyer’s disturbing mindset and uncovers the systemic cover-ups of the massacre.
The dialogues are stirring and memorable, though the second half slightly drags. There was certainly more potential in developing the inner conflict of McKinley, which remains somewhat underexplored.
Performances:
Akshay Kumar delivers a career-defining performance as C. Sankaran Nair. His portrayal balances vulnerability with conviction—particularly in the courtroom sequences, where he is raw, angry, and unforgettable. His command of emotions and screen presence make the role deeply impactful.
Ananya Panday surprises with her mature portrayal of Dilreet Gill—her performance is earnest and sincere, standing tall beside veterans.
R. Madhavan skillfully brings out the complexities of Neville McKinley. While the script could have offered more, he delivers with intensity and credibility. Simon Paisley Day is chilling as General Dyer, successfully embodying the disdain and cruelty of colonial rule.
Music and Technical Aspects:
The score, especially ‘O Shera’ and ‘Kithe Gaya’, complements the film’s emotional weight. The surprise reprise of ‘Teri Mitti’ from the original Kesari is a fitting homage and adds emotional gravitas. Cinematography, particularly during the massacre sequence, is haunting and well-executed.
Final Verdict:
Kesari Chapter 2 is not just a film—it’s a powerful reminder of a history that must never be forgotten. It tells the story of a brave man who dared to challenge the empire, not with weapons, but with truth and justice. For every Indian who has longed for a formal apology for the atrocities of the British Raj, this film reignites that demand.
Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5/5)
Watch it for: History, heroism, and Akshay Kumar in top form.
