The much-anticipated sequel to the 2019 film ‘Kesari’, ‘Kesri Chapter 2’, takes a dramatic turn, shifting focus from the battlefield of Saragarhi to the courtroom. The new film is a gripping period courtroom drama centered around the aftermath of the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
A Story of Courage and Defiance
The film is based on the real-life story of C. Shankaran Nair, a lawyer who dared to challenge the mighty British Empire in court. Nair’s determination to uncover the truth behind the Jallianwala Bagh massacre is the driving force behind the narrative. The story is inspired by the book ‘The Case That Shook the Empire’, written by Nair’s grandson Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat.
The film’s writers, Karan Singh Tyagi and Amritpal Bindra, have woven a tale that masterfully blends emotions, anger, and suspense. The re-creation of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre is a heart-wrenching and disturbing portrayal that evokes strong emotions in the viewer. The subsequent legal battle is equally engaging.
One of the most compelling aspects of this film is its cast. Akshay Kumar shines as C. Shankaran Nair, bringing depth to the character. R. Madhavan is equally impressive as the Anglo-Indian lawyer Neville MacKinley, Nair’s fierce opponent in court. Ananya Panday makes a strong impression as a young lawyer who plays a crucial role in the case. Simon Pasley Day delivers a chilling performance as General Dyer, the mastermind behind the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
The production design is noteworthy. Rita Ghosh has recreated pre-independence India with remarkable authenticity. Debojit Ray’s cinematography and Karan Singh Tyagi’s direction keep the viewer engaged throughout the film’s 2 hours and 15 minutes. The background score by Azeem Dayani and the song ‘O Shera’ by Shashwat Sachdev add to the tension and emotional depth of the narrative.
This may be worth watching for those looking for an intense courtroom drama centered around an important event in Indian history.