Kesari Chapter 2: Akshay Kumar’s Courtroom Drama Unveils Jallianwala Bagh’s Untold Story
A Forgotten Fight for Justice Comes to Light
What happens when a lone Indian barrister dares to sue the British Empire for genocide? Kesari Chapter 2 answers this question with a gripping courtroom drama that brings to life the untold legal battle following the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Released on April 18, 2025, the film stars Akshay Kumar as C. Sankaran Nair, the courageous lawyer who challenged colonial authority in a case that shook the empire. Business Standard+8Wikipedia+8News Live+8The Times of India+10News Live+10The Times of India+10
Now, audiences can experience this powerful story from the comfort of their homes, as Kesari Chapter 2 is set to stream on JioHotstar starting June 13, 2025. News24+2News Live+2Navbharat Times+2
🔍 Overview: A Courtroom Battle That Changed History
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Release Date: April 18, 2025
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Director: Karan Singh Tyagi
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Cast: Akshay Kumar, R. Madhavan, Ananya Panday
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Genre: Historical Courtroom Drama
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Based On: The Case That Shook The Empire by Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat
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Budget: ₹150 crore
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Box Office Collection: ₹125 crore worldwide News Live+8India TV News+8Wikipedia+8News24+11Wikipedia+11India TV News+11The Times of India+5News24+5The Times of India+5Indiatimes
🎬 Plot Summary: The Pursuit of Truth
Set against the backdrop of post-Jallianwala Bagh India, the film follows Justice C. Sankaran Nair (Akshay Kumar) as he embarks on a legal crusade against the British Crown. Tasked with investigating the massacre, Nair uncovers the harrowing truth and decides to hold General Reginald Dyer accountable for the atrocities committed. Aided by a young revolutionary, Pargat Singh, and a determined law student, Dilreet Gill (Ananya Panday), Nair faces formidable opposition in the courtroom, including the Crown’s lawyer, Neville McKinley (R. Madhavan). The film delves into themes of justice, colonial oppression, and the resilience of the human spirit. News24+12News Live+12Wikipedia+12The Times of India+3Wikipedia+3News Live+3
🌟 Cast & Performances
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Akshay Kumar delivers a compelling performance as Justice C. Sankaran Nair, portraying the character’s unwavering commitment to justice.
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R. Madhavan brings depth to the role of Neville McKinley, the Crown’s lawyer with a personal vendetta.
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Ananya Panday shines as Dilreet Gill, capturing the determination of a young law student fighting for truth.
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Regina Cassandra adds emotional weight to the narrative as Parvathy Nair, Sankaran’s supportive wife.Wikipedia
The ensemble cast’s performances contribute significantly to the film’s impact, bringing historical figures to life with authenticity. News Live
🎶 Music & Soundtrack
The film’s soundtrack, composed by Shashwat Sachdev and Kavita Seth–Kanishk Seth, complements the narrative’s emotional depth. The first single, “O Shera – Teer Te Taj,” released on April 12, 2025, is a reimagined version of a song associated with the 2020-2021 Indian farmers’ protest. The music enhances the film’s atmosphere, resonating with its themes of resistance and hope. TechnoSports Media Group+4Wikipedia+4News Live+4
📊 Box Office Performance
Despite a strong opening and positive reviews, Kesari Chapter 2 faced stiff competition at the box office. With a budget of ₹150 crore, the film earned ₹125 crore worldwide. While it didn’t achieve blockbuster status, its critical acclaim and historical significance have solidified its place as a noteworthy cinematic endeavor. Indiatimes
📺 OTT Release: Watch from Home
For those who missed the theatrical release, Kesari Chapter 2 will be available for streaming on JioHotstar starting June 13, 2025. This provides an opportunity for a wider audience to engage with this important historical narrative. News24+2News Live+2Navbharat Times+2
🧭 Final Verdict: A Must-Watch Historical Drama
Kesari Chapter 2 stands out as a poignant portrayal of a pivotal moment in India’s struggle for independence. Its focus on legal resistance against colonial powers offers a fresh perspective on historical events. With powerful performances, a compelling narrative, and a resonant soundtrack, the film is a valuable addition to the genre of historical dramas.
