Akshay Kumar has once again captivated audiences with his striking new look as a Kathakali dancer, shared ahead of the release of Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh. This highly anticipated historical drama promises to shed light on one of India’s most pivotal legal battles, led by the fearless lawyer and statesman, C Sankaran Nair.
A Symbolic Transformation
In the latest promotional image, Akshay Kumar dons the elaborate Kathakali attire, complete with the iconic green-painted face known as Pachcha, which traditionally represents noble characters like sages and kings. The actor described the look as more than just a costume, calling it “a symbol of tradition, resistance, truth, and my nation.” This bold visual encapsulates the essence of C Sankaran Nair’s fight against colonial oppression—a battle fought not with weapons but with the power of law and unwavering determination.
The Legacy of C Sankaran Nair
C Sankaran Nair was a distinguished lawyer and nationalist who played a crucial role in challenging British atrocities after the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Born in 1857 in Palghat, he rose to prominence as Advocate-General of Madras and later served on the Viceroy’s Executive Council. His resignation following the massacre marked a bold protest against British repression. Nair’s contributions extended beyond law; he championed progressive causes like gender equality, free education, and opposition to caste discrimination. His defiance of colonial policies earned him respect even among his adversaries.
The Jallianwala Bagh Massacre: A Turning Point
The Jallianwala Bagh massacre on April 13, 1919, remains one of the darkest chapters in Indian history. British troops under General Reginald Dyer fired indiscriminately on a peaceful gathering in Amritsar, killing hundreds and injuring thousands. This gruesome act ignited widespread outrage and became a rallying point for India’s independence movement. Nair’s efforts to uncover the truth behind this atrocity through legal channels set him apart as a fearless reformer who refused to bow to colonial oppression.
Kesari Chapter 2: A Riveting Retelling
Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, Kesari Chapter 2 explores the aftermath of this massacre through the lens of Nair’s historic court battle against the British Empire. Inspired by true events and based on the book The Case That Shook The Empire by Pushpa Palat and Raghu Palat, the film delves into Nair’s fight for justice—a story largely untaught in history textbooks.
The teaser for Kesari Chapter 2, released on March 24, 2025, has already left fans spellbound with its unconventional approach. The opening 30 seconds feature no visuals or titles but rely entirely on soundscapes to immerse viewers in the chaos and horror of the massacre. Akshay Kumar’s commanding performance as a determined advocate has been widely praised for capturing Nair’s fiery spirit.
A Bold Statement Through Cinema
Scheduled for release on April 18, 2025, Kesari Chapter 2 not only celebrates Nair’s legacy but also highlights cinema’s ability to preserve history and spark conversations about justice. Akshay Kumar’s portrayal is expected to bring renewed attention to this unsung hero while honoring India’s rich traditions—symbolized by his Kathakali-inspired transformation.
As fans eagerly await this cinematic tribute to courage and resistance, Kesari Chapter 2 promises to be more than just a film; it is a reminder of India’s enduring fight for freedom and justice.