Akshay Kumar’s powerful courtroom drama on the Jallianwala Bagh massacre is now streaming exclusively on Tata Play Binge. Discover why this historical film is a must-watch for fans of Indian history, gripping narratives, and stellar performances.
1. Quick Facts
- Streaming Platform: Tata Play Binge (launched June 13, 2025)
- Theatrical Release: April 18, 2025
- Genre: Historical Courtroom Drama
- Runtime: 135 minutes
- Cast: Akshay Kumar, R. Madhavan, Ananya Panday
- Certificate: Adult (A) — Graphic violence/mature language
- Box Office: ₹142–144 crore (Global)
2. Why Watch Kesari Chapter 2?
Inspired by True Events: Dramatizes barrister C. Sankaran Nair’s battle against the British Empire after the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
Riveting Courtroom Drama: Focuses on justice, colonial accountability, and India’s fight for truth.
Akshay Kumar’s Career-Defining Role: As Sankaran Nair, delivering one of his most intense performances.
Patriotic Core: Ignites themes of unity and resistance against oppression.
3. Stellar Cast & Characters
4. Plot Summary
The film follows Sankaran Nair (Akshay Kumar), initially tasked by the British to investigate the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Instead, he:
- Exposes General Dyer’s atrocities.
- Figuratively sues the British Crown for genocide in a landmark case.
- Battles manipulative colonial forces alongside lawyer Dilreet Gill (Ananya Panday).
5. Behind the Scenes
- Director: Karan Singh Tyagi (debut feature).
- Producers: Dharma Productions, Leo Media, Cape of Good Films.
- Budget: ₹100 crore.
- Key Tracks: “O Shera — Teer Te Taj” and “Kithe Gaya Tu Saaiyaan”.
6. Critical Reception
- Rotten Tomatoes: 50% (12 critics).
- Praise: Akshay’s performance, courtroom sequences, emotional depth.
- Criticism: Over-dramatization, historical liberties.
- Verdict: 3.5/5 (Bollywood Hungama, India Today).
7. Controversies & Accuracy
Historical Liberties:
- Nair sued Lt-Gov Michael O’Dwyer in London (not the Crown directly).
- Characters like Dilreet Gill are fictionalized.
8. How to Stream on Tata Play Binge
- Launch Date: June 13, 2025.
- Subscription: All Tata Play Binge plans.
- Devices: Smart TVs (via set-top box), mobile apps.
- Timing: Released near Jallianwala Bagh’s 106th anniversary.
9. Should You Watch It?
WATCH IF YOU LIKE:
- Courtroom dramas with historical roots (à la Section 375).
- Nationalistic storytelling.
- Akshay Kumar in intense roles.
SKIP IF: You prefer strict historical accuracy or subtle narratives.
FAQs
Q: Is Kesari Chapter 2 a direct sequel to Kesari (2019)?
A: No. It’s a spiritual successor focusing on a new story (courtroom drama vs. battlefield).
Q: Where was Kesari Chapter 2 filmed?
A:Mumbai sets recreated Jallianwala Bagh (filming began Nov 2022).
Q: Who composed the music?
A: Shashwat Sachdev & Kavita/Kanishk Seth; lyrics by Irshad Kamil.
Q: Is it available on other OTT platforms?
A: No. Tata Play Binge holds exclusive streaming rights after JioCinema’s VOD premiere.
Final Verdict
Kesari Chapter 2 transforms a dark chapter of Indian history into a gripping courtroom battle. With Akshay Kumar’s powerhouse performance and timely themes of justice, it’s a compelling watch for history buffs and patriots. Stream now on Tata Play Binge!