April 19, 2025: In the flickering shadows of India’s tumultuous fight for freedom, Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh emerges as a pulse-quickening courtroom drama, pulling the audience into the heart of one of the nation’s darkest days.
Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, this gripping sequel to the blockbuster Kesari opens with the haunting echoes of April 13, 1919—the day that forever scarred the soul of India. As the camera zooms in on a war-torn landscape, the film dares to challenge history itself, intertwining fact with fiction in a desperate, impassioned quest for justice. Starring Akshay Kumar as the indomitable advocate Shankaran Nair, the film delves into a fictional courtroom battle that will have you questioning: Is this a retelling of the past… or a reinvention of it?
A Courtroom Drama Like No Other
Set against the backdrop of the Indian independence struggle, Kesari Chapter 2 begins with the horrific events of April 13, 1919, when General Dyer’s brutal massacre shook the nation. The film follows Shankaran Nair (Akshay Kumar), a passionate advocate seeking justice for the victims, as he files a case against Dyer, played by the British advocate Neville McKinley (R. Madhavan). The courtroom becomes the battleground for justice, as young advocate Dilreet Gill (Ananya Panday) joins Nair in his pursuit.
The narrative is a fascinating blend of history and fiction. Tyagi’s direction explores the legal nuances, moral battles, and courtroom strategy involved in holding Dyer accountable. Though the film showcases an intense courtroom showdown, the factual inaccuracies and dramatic liberties taken with history might rub some viewers the wrong way. Still, there’s no denying the emotional weight it carries, especially as Akshay Kumar brings his trademark intensity to the role of Nair.
Kesari Chapter 2: Akshay Kumar and Madhavan Stellar Performance
Akshay Kumar is undoubtedly the highlight of Kesari Chapter 2. As Shankaran Nair, his portrayal of a man consumed with the pursuit of justice feels authentic and powerful. Kumar’s ability to bring gravitas to even the most intense courtroom scenes anchors the film, making the audience root for Nair’s cause with every passing moment.
R. Madhavan also delivers a solid performance, though his character of Neville McKinley, the British advocate defending Dyer, could have been explored further. Despite his excellent skills, Madhavan’s character is underused, especially during the critical moments of the climax, which leaves a bit of a void in the otherwise thrilling narrative.
Ananya Panday’s portrayal of Dilreet Gill is commendable, though she occasionally fades into the background during crucial sequences. Still, her character offers an essential counterpoint to Nair’s unwavering dedication.
Director Tyagi takes several creative liberties with the historical facts. The film introduces a fictitious courtroom trial that never took place, which, while adding drama, detracts from the authenticity of the real-life events. The film also muddles historical timelines, putting characters from different periods in one place, which feels more like a historical fantasy than a documentary-style retelling.
While this approach might appeal to fans of courtroom dramas, history buffs may find themselves frustrated with the inaccuracies. The mix of historical fiction and courtroom thriller occasionally confuses the audience, especially when the movie veers into events that never transpired.
On the positive side, Kesari Chapter 2 excels in its cinematography. The film beautifully captures the essence of the era, from the colonial setting to the charged atmosphere of the courtroom. The production values are top-notch, and Sashwat Sachdev’s background score intensifies the emotional beats during key moments.
However, the pacing of the film is slow at the start, and the narrative takes its time to gain momentum. While the courtroom scenes are well-crafted, the film could have benefited from a tighter edit to maintain its grip on the audience. The climax, though intense, feels a bit underwhelming given the emotional buildup.
Kesari 2 succeeds in engaging the audience with its gripping narrative, powerful performances, and a bold take on a historical tragedy. While it fails to stick to the facts, the emotional resonance and Tyagi’s handling of the courtroom drama elevate the film. Akshay Kumar’s exceptional portrayal of Shankaran Nair and the overall intensity of the film make it worth watching, especially for fans of historical dramas. However, those seeking a more factual account of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre might be left disappointed.
In conclusion, Kesari 2 is a cinematic experience that blends history with fiction, keeping you engaged despite its flaws. If you can look past the historical inaccuracies, it’s an engrossing journey into India’s painful past, told through a compelling courtroom drama.