Akshay Kumar’s Bold Return With Kesari Chapter 2
The buzz around Kesari Chapter 2 is hard to ignore. Akshay Kumar steps back into historical drama territory, but this time the script—helmed by first-timer Karan Singh Tyagi—has everyone talking for more reasons than one. Instead of a straightforward retelling, the film dives into the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy with a twist: it uses fictionalized characters and courtroom drama to ask what justice might look like through new eyes.
At the center stands Kumar as C. Sankaran Nair, a lawyer fueled by redemption. Audiences and critics are almost unanimous about his performance. Whether he’s making rousing speeches in packed courtrooms or navigating deep emotional struggles, Akshay’s scenes get the kind of applause that echoes in social media feeds long after the credits roll. The courtroom sequences especially have become a talking point, earning descriptions like ‘outstanding’ and ‘clap-worthy’ during several first reactions.
The Power of the Cast and Controversial Choices
R. Madhavan earns his flowers in the role of the calculating British antagonist. Viewers who caught early screenings agree: his appearance in the second half cranks up the intensity. It’s a rare thing to see a villain who can truly hold his own when the film’s star is in top form, but Madhavan's performance keeps things unpredictable and kicks the narrative up a notch. Simon Paisley Say’s menacing take on General Dyer leaves an impact, while Ananya Pandey adds emotional complexity with her supporting role.
Praise isn’t universal, though. The film’s bold approach—rewriting parts of history for drama—has split the critics. Some lean into the film’s entertainment, labeling it ‘ahistorical but entertaining’ (as Rediff.com put it) and underlining its big-screen appeal. The use of the patriotic anthem Teri Mitti and that relentless pace clearly pull at the audience's heartstrings. But then there’s the other side: a chunk of reviewers worry the liberties taken with real events muddle the facts a bit too much, possibly confusing more than informing.
Another hiccup? A subplot in the second half that’s been described by critics as flimsy and undercooked. While the first half has that tight, urgent rhythm, the latter chapters sometimes stumble as they try to balance new character arcs without enough screen time to really breathe. Still, Akshay Kumar’s commitment to the role—even if some (like NDTV) think he’s not the perfect casting choice—keeps viewers glued to their seats.
On the audience front, the sentiment is loud and proud. Twitter is filled with calls to catch Kesari Chapter 2 on the biggest screen possible, especially if you’re a fan of emotionally charged, patriotic dramas with no shortage of high-stakes tension.
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