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Kesari Chapter 2 is not just a sequel — it’s a deeply emotional and powerful film that tells an important story from India’s freedom struggle. After the success of Kesari (2019), which focused on the Battle of Saragarhi, this film shifts its focus to a legal battle that took place after the horrifying Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, Kesari Chapter 2 brings to life a lesser-known but extremely important chapter of Indian history.

Let’s explore this film in detail.

The Plot: Justice After Jallianwala Bagh

The movie begins with the tragic Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, where British troops, under General Dyer’s command, opened fire on peaceful Indian citizens. This scene is heart-wrenching and leaves a lasting impact. But the film does not stop at showing the violence. Instead, it takes us to the courtroom, where one brave man, C. Sankaran Nair, challenges the British Empire.

Played by Akshay Kumar, Sankaran Nair is a lawyer who fights to bring justice to the innocent lives lost during the massacre. The film shows his struggle, the challenges he faced, and how he stood against a powerful empire with only truth on his side.

A Fresh Take on Historical Films

Unlike many patriotic films that focus only on wars or direct action, Kesari Chapter 2 stands out by using a courtroom drama format. This makes the film different and more intense. The drama unfolds through powerful dialogues, legal arguments, and emotional flashbacks. It shows how a courtroom can be as fierce a battleground as a warfront.

The film is inspired by real events and based on the book “The Case That Shook the Empire”. It brings attention to a hero we never learned about in school — Sir C. Sankaran Nair — and tells us how legal resistance can be just as important as armed struggle.

Performances That Leave a Mark

The performances are one of the biggest strengths of this film.

• Akshay Kumar gives one of his most powerful performances as Sankaran Nair. He is calm, emotional, and strong — showing all the shades of a man fighting for justice.
• R. Madhavan, as the British lawyer Neville McKinley, is intense and impressive. His court scenes with Akshay are some of the best in the film.
• Ananya Panday surprises everyone with her role as a young lawyer Dilreet Gill. Many viewers say this is her best performance yet. Off-screen too, she recently made headlines in a stunning blue saree — see photos here.
• Simon Paisley Day as General Dyer does a great job in showing the cruelty of the British side.

Even the supporting cast, including a child actor named Krish Rao, adds emotional depth to the story.

Direction, Screenplay & Cinematography

Director Karan Singh Tyagi deserves special praise. This is his debut film, and he has handled such a sensitive subject with care and confidence. The screenplay keeps the audience engaged, especially during the courtroom sequences.

The cinematography is excellent. Every frame is meaningful, especially the scenes showing the massacre and the courtroom tension. The color tones, camera angles, and set design help recreate the British-era setting realistically.

Music That Touches the Heart

The background music and songs in the film add a lot to the emotional storytelling.

• The reprise of “Teri Mitti” brings back memories from the first film and still gives goosebumps.
• Songs like “O Shera” and “Kithe Gaya Ve Saiyaan” are emotional and fit perfectly in the narrative.

The music does not interrupt the story — it supports and lifts it.

Emotional and Educational Impact

The biggest achievement of Kesari Chapter 2 is how it makes you feel and think. It reminds us of the painful truth behind India’s independence and the sacrifices made by people we often forget.

The film doesn’t show exaggerated patriotism. Instead, it focuses on truth, justice, and courage. Many viewers said they cried, felt angry, and left the theatre with a new understanding of their country’s past.

It’s not just entertainment — it’s a lesson in history that every Indian should know.

What Worked Well

• Strong performances by the lead and supporting cast
• Powerful and emotional courtroom scenes
• Excellent cinematography and direction
• Engaging music that blends well with the theme
• Important untold story told in a respectful and moving way

What Could Have Been Better

• Some viewers found the first half a bit slow
• A few scenes felt over-dramatic for a courtroom film
• Certain parts may feel like creative liberties from real history

However, none of these points take away the power and purpose of the film.

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch Tribute to an Unsung Hero

Kesari Chapter 2 is more than just a movie. It’s a powerful tribute to a forgotten hero, a reminder of colonial cruelty, and a celebration of India’s courage. The film manages to educate, inspire, and move the audience all at once.

If you care about history, truth, and justice — or just want to watch a movie that means something — this film is a must-watch.

⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
⭐ IMDb Rating of 8.6/10
🎯 Recommendation: Watch it in theatres with your family. Every Indian should see this.