Kesari 2 review Starring Akshay Kumar, Madhavan and Ananya Panday

- April 18, 2025

Justice Delayed, Not Denied? A Look at 'Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh'

As the credits rolled on 'Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh,' a heavy silence hung in the cinema. This isn't the battlefield bravado of its predecessor, but a different kind of war – a war waged with words and legal maneuvering in the hallowed halls of British courts. Director Karan Singh Tyagi takes us beyond the tragic events of Jallianwala Bagh and into the arduous fight for justice that followed, primarily through the eyes of the formidable lawyer C. Sankaran Nair, brought to life with compelling intensity by Akshay Kumar.

While 'Kesari' vividly depicts courage in the face of overwhelming odds, 'Kesari Chapter 2' shifts the focus to the aftermath, exploring systemic injustice and the relentless pursuit of accountability. The film is based on the book The Case That Shook The Empire, and it undeniably attempts to showcase the legal battle that ensued, spearheaded by Nair against the British government and the infamous General Dyer.

Akshay Kumar delivers a nuanced performance as C. Sankaran Nair. He embodies the quiet determination and simmering anger of a man witnessing profound injustice. This isn't the action hero we often see; here, he's a man wielding intellect and legal prowess as his weapons. His portrayal captures the emotional weight of the case and the personal sacrifices Nair made in his quest for truth.

R. Madhavan, as the formidable British advocate, provides a compelling counterpoint. Their courtroom exchanges are undoubtedly a highlight of the film, showcasing the clash of ideologies and the power dynamics of the time. Ananya Panday, in a supporting role as a fellow lawyer, adds a layer of earnestness to the narrative.

Tyagi's direction effectively captures the tension of the courtroom drama. The arguments are sharp, the stakes are high, and the historical context is woven in, though perhaps not always seamlessly. The film doesn't shy away from depicting the blatant disregard for Indian lives and the entrenched colonial mindset.

However, 'Kesari Chapter 2' isn't without its shortcomings. While the intention to highlight this crucial chapter of history is commendable, the film occasionally feels like it prioritizes dramatic flair over strict historical accuracy. Certain plot points and characterizations seem embellished, which might irk viewers seeking a purely factual account. The pacing, particularly in the first half, can feel uneven, taking its time to fully establish the legal battle.

Despite these drawbacks, the film succeeds in evoking a strong emotional response. The sheer audacity of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, coupled with the subsequent attempts to bury the truth, are powerfully conveyed. The film serves as a stark reminder of the atrocities committed during the colonial era and the long and arduous fight for justice.

In conclusion: 'Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh' is a commendable effort to bring a significant historical event to the forefront. Akshay Kumar's powerful performance and the engaging courtroom sequences are definite strengths. However, viewers should be aware that the film takes some creative liberties. If you're looking for a purely factual retelling, you might find some aspects wanting. But if you're interested in a compelling narrative about the fight for justice in the face of immense power, and are moved by stories of historical resilience, then 'Kesari Chapter 2' is a film worth watching. It's a different kind of 'Kesari' – less about battlefield heroism and more about the quiet strength of those who fought for truth and accountability in the aftermath of tragedy.

Rating: 3 out of 5 stars.

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