Kesari Chapter 2

Kesari Chapter 2 Review: A Gripping Courtroom Drama with Powerful Performances

Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh is a thought-provoking historical courtroom drama that delves into one of the darkest chapters of India’s colonial past — the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919. Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi and starring Akshay Kumar as the fearless lawyer C. Sankaran Nair, the film chronicles the legal battle that sought justice against the British Empire’s brutal actions. Released on April 18, 2025, the movie has sparked widespread discussion, drawing both praise and criticism. Here’s a detailed review of the film’s narrative, performances, technical aspects, and overall impact.

Plot and Narrative: Unveiling an Untold Chapter

The film is based on the real-life legal case fought by C. Sankaran Nair, who challenged the British Crown and General Reginald Dyer for the genocide committed during the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. The story begins by portraying Nair as a loyalist to the British Empire, even helping convict a freedom fighter early on. However, after witnessing the horrors of the massacre and confronting the systemic racism and injustice inflicted upon Indians, Nair undergoes a profound transformation. With the help of rookie lawyer Dilreet Gill (Ananya Panday), he takes on the daunting task of suing the Crown in a courtroom battle that tests his courage and convictions.

While the film covers the historical events with commendable research and detail, some critics note that Sankaran Nair’s transformation feels somewhat rushed and lacks deeper exploration of his internal conflict. The narrative occasionally glosses over finer nuances, opting instead for a more straightforward dramatization. Nevertheless, the screenplay remains taut and engaging, especially during the courtroom sequences where the stakes are highest.

Performances: Akshay Kumar Shines as the Reluctant Patriot

Akshay Kumar delivers a towering performance as C. Sankaran Nair, balancing vulnerability and intensity with remarkable finesse. His portrayal captures the lawyer’s journey from a compliant servant of the Empire to a passionate crusader for justice. Critics and audiences alike have lauded Akshay’s courtroom scenes, particularly the climactic trial where his fiery monologues evoke powerful emotions.

Ananya Panday surprises with one of her strongest performances to date, convincingly portraying the idealistic yet determined Dilreet Gill. Her character adds a contemporary touch and acts as a catalyst in Nair’s awakening. R. Madhavan impresses as Neville McKinley, the British lawyer opposing Nair, embodying the arrogance and insecurity of the colonial establishment with subtlety and menace. Simon Paisley Day as General Dyer is chilling, perfectly capturing the ruthless brutality of the man responsible for the massacre.

Supporting actors like Regina Cassandra and Amit Sial also contribute solid performances, enriching the film’s emotional depth.

Direction and Technical Aspects: A Stylish Yet Sometimes Glossy Treatment

Karan Singh Tyagi, making his feature directorial debut, handles the sensitive subject matter with respect and narrative clarity. The film’s pacing is generally steady, avoiding the typical second-half slump that often plagues courtroom dramas. The screenplay, co-written by Tyagi and Amritpal Singh Bindra, is intelligent and impactful, with dialogues that resonate deeply — lines like “the empire is shrinking” linger long after the credits roll.

Visually, the film impresses with authentic production design by Rita Ghosh, recreating the pre-Independence era with meticulous detail. Debojeet Ray’s cinematography captures both the grimness of colonial oppression and the intensity of courtroom drama effectively. The background score and the use of the iconic patriotic song ‘Teri Mitti’ heighten the emotional impact, especially during the Jallianwala Bagh sequences.

However, some critics point out that the film occasionally leans too heavily on dramatization and visual gloss, which can dilute the raw horror of the historical events. A more restrained approach might have added gravitas akin to films like Sardar Udham.

Audience Reception and Box Office Performance

Kesari Chapter 2 opened to a positive response from audiences and critics. It grossed over ₹4 crore net in India on its first day, with strong occupancy in metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai. Social media buzz has been enthusiastic, with many praising the film’s storytelling, performances, and the way it brings an important but lesser-known chapter of India’s freedom struggle to the forefront.

Special screenings have reportedly received standing ovations, and Bollywood celebrities have showered praise on the film. Fans appreciate the film’s emotional weight and the spotlight it places on unsung heroes like Sankaran Nair. However, some viewers note that the film’s appeal might be niche, resonating more with history buffs and those interested in courtroom dramas than mass audiences seeking commercial entertainment.

Strengths of Kesari Chapter 2

• Powerful Performances: Akshay Kumar’s portrayal of Sankaran Nair is the film’s backbone, supported by strong performances from Ananya Panday, R. Madhavan, and Simon Paisley Day.

• Engaging Screenplay: The film’s narrative keeps viewers invested, especially during the courtroom battles and investigative sequences.

• Historical Insight: It educates audiences about a significant but often overlooked legal fight following the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

• Technical Excellence: Authentic production design, evocative cinematography, and a stirring background score enhance the film’s impact.

Areas Where the Film Falters

• Character Development: Sankaran Nair’s transformation feels somewhat hurried, and the film misses opportunities to delve deeper into his psyche.

• Dramatization Over Restraint: At times, the film’s visual style and dramatization overshadow the raw historical gravity.

• Supporting Roles: Some characters, like R. Madhavan’s Neville McKinley, could have been explored with more nuance.

Conclusion: A Must-Watch Tribute to Courage and Justice

Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh is a commendable cinematic effort that brings to life a crucial episode in India’s struggle for independence. While it may not be flawless, its strengths in storytelling, performances, and historical significance make it a compelling watch. Akshay Kumar’s intense portrayal of Sankaran Nair anchors the film, making it a stirring tribute to the relentless fight for justice against colonial oppression.

For viewers interested in history, courtroom dramas, or patriotic cinema, Kesari Chapter 2 offers a powerful, thought-provoking experience that honors the sacrifices of those who dared to challenge the might of the British Empire.

Rating: 3.5/5

Disclaimer: This review is based on multiple critical and audience perspectives following the film’s release on April 18, 2025.