During a recent press conference for the highly anticipated film Kesari Chapter 2, Akshay Kumar faced questions about his use of strong language in the movie’s teaser. The actor responded with conviction, justifying his choice by emphasizing the historical context and the emotional weight of the narrative.
“Yes, I have used this word. But the word he used, (for Britishers in the teaser) 'You are still a slave!'—was that not a (gaali) abuse for you? I think usse bade gaali aur kuchh ho nahi sakti,” Akshay said, defending his choice. He expressed that being called a slave by the British was a far greater insult than the word he used. “I would have been happy if you had said something about using the word 'slave' rather than you talking about me saying f**k you,” he added, making it clear that his words were a reflection of the intense emotions tied to India’s colonial past.
Akshay further delved into the historical significance of the film’s setting, which explores the aftermath of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. He stated, “Mere hisaab se agar aise time pe hum logon ne goli bhi maar di hoti na toh bhi chhota rehta,” suggesting that even an act of shooting the British for their oppression would have been a ‘small response’ compared to the cruelty inflicted upon Indians during that era. His words underscored the film’s attempt to portray the raw and unfiltered emotions of that dark chapter in history.
Kesari Chapter 2 is set against the backdrop of one of India’s most tragic events, the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, and features a gripping courtroom showdown between Akshay Kumar’s character, Nair, and R Madhavan, who plays Neville McKinley, a lawyer defending the British Crown. The film’s narrative unfolds with haunting visuals of the massacre, reflecting the devastation and the far-reaching impact it had on the Indian psyche.
Scheduled for release on April 18, 2025, Kesari Chapter 2 promises to be a powerful cinematic experience, shedding light on the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of those who fought against colonial oppression.