Akshay Kumar’s much-awaited historical drama ‘Kesari Chapter 2’ has finally landed in cinemas—and it’s already generating a strong buzz on social media. Released on 18 April 2025, the film has struck a chord with audiences, with X users hailing it as a powerful, emotionally charged courtroom spectacle.

Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, the film is a spiritual successor to 2019’s ‘Kesari,’ but instead of the battlefield, this chapter unfolds in the courtroom. Inspired by Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat’s book ‘The Case That Shook The Empire,’ ‘Kesari Chapter 2’ follows the gripping legal battle of lawyer C. Sankaran Nair, who dared to challenge the British establishment in the wake of the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

Akshay Kumar steps into the shoes of Nair, delivering what many online are calling one of the finest performances of his career. R. Madhavan joins him as Neville McKinley, the opposing counsel, while Ananya Panday portrays Dilreet Gill. The supporting cast includes Regina Cassandra as Palat Kunhimalu Amma, Simon Paisley Day as General Reginald Dyer, and Alexx O’Nell as Lord Chelmsford.

The film, which runs for 2 hours and 14 minutes, also features Steven Hartley, Mark Bennington and Sammy Jonas Heaney in key roles. Produced by Karan Johar, Hiroo Johar, Apoorva Mehta, Aruna Bhatia, Adar Poonawalla, Anand Tiwari and Amritpal Singh Bindra, the courtroom drama has been released strategically on Good Friday, benefitting from the national holiday.

Even before its theatrical debut, ‘Kesari Chapter 2’ showed signs of commercial success. According to trade tracker Sacnilk, it racked up over 50,000 advance ticket sales, earning approximately ₹3 crore in pre-release revenue—₹1.84 crore of which came from standard advance bookings.

X reactions have been overwhelmingly positive since the film’s release. Early viewers are praising its stunning visuals, evocative storytelling and nuanced performances. Many describe it as a “must-watch” that captures the pain, resilience and complexity surrounding one of colonial India’s darkest hours.

One X user commented, “Compelling storyline, emotional depth, and historical significance. A must-watch for history Enthusiasts and cinema lovers!”

Another user wrote, “Kesari Chapter 2 is a powerful & emotionally charged film, this historical drama brings to life the tragic events of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre with heart-wrenching authenticity.”

Another X user posted, “Powerfull & Emotionally Charged film.This history expose Jalianwala bagh events. Presentation are Amazing.”

Users also commented on the performances delivered by Akshay Kumar, R Madhavan, and Anaya Panday, “A gripping courtroom drama on Jallianwala Bagh’s aftermath. @akshaykumar shines as C. Sankaran Nair, with @ActorMadhavan and @ananyapandayy impressing. Intense, emotional, and well-crafted, it’s a must-watch”