At the trailer launch of Kesari Veer: Legends of Somnath, veteran actor Suniel Shetty made an impassioned case for telling stories that matter—particularly those rooted in India’s forgotten history and unsung heroes.
The film, set to release on May 16, narrates the story of Hamirji Gohil, a 14th-century warrior who gave his life to protect the Somnath Temple from the Tughlaq Empire. Featuring Sooraj Pancholi in the lead and Suniel Shetty in a pivotal role, Kesari Veer blends historical valor, spirituality, and patriotism.
Speaking about the shift in audience preferences and his own career journey, Shetty reflected on past roles—especially his villainous turn in the 2004 film Main Hoon Na, and how patriotism has always shaped his decisions:“Anyone who loves their country can never truly be a villain. For me, there’s nothing more important than the nation. I’m not just saying that—when it comes to India, I become a completely different person. I’ve never been afraid to take a stand.”
Referring to his iconic role as Raghavan in Main Hoon Na, Shetty said: “Raghavan was seen as a negative character in the script, but it took me just two minutes to say yes. That was not a negative character for me.. ‘How can he be negative?’ I always focus on the character’s truth. That’s how I choose roles.”
In Kesari Veer, Shetty plays a father whose relationship with his daughter forms a deeply emotional thread in the story.“This time too, I play a very important character. He’s a father whose world revolves around his daughter. When you watch the film, you’ll understand—this is a very different kind of love story. The father doesn’t quite understand what his daughter wants to do. It’s a beautiful story.”
Suniel didn’t hold back when addressing the gaps in how history has been shared with Indian audiences:“We were always taught about Akbar and Aurangzeb, but never about our own heroes. I think the time has come to tell those stories again. The audience has changed. We now have multiple mediums through which these stories can reach people.”
He stressed the need for more filmmakers, actors, and producers to take the initiative:“Every state, every union territory has its own rich history. If people from those regions come forward—actors, directors, producers—we’ll see great stories emerge. Stories that make cultural sense, not just financial sense.”
Suniel ended with hope and conviction, “You’ll hear this story now—and you’ll see many more like it in the future. This is just the beginning.”