Bollywood star Akshay Kumar is gearing up for another significant historical drama. His upcoming film, which was initially called “Shankara,” will now be titled “Kesari Chapter 2.” This film features co-stars R Madhavan and Ananya Panday, and is produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions, Cape Of Good Films, and Leo Media Collective. It is set to hit theaters on March 14, 2025, coinciding with the Holi festival.
This title change brings back memories of “Kesari,” a 2019 period drama where Akshay Kumar also took the lead and which was released around the same time during Holi. However, while the previous film revolved around the Battle of Saragarhi, “Kesari Chapter 2” tells a different historical story.
Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, the new film focuses on C Sankaran Nair, a respected lawyer and freedom fighter who stood against the British Raj, seeking justice for the victims of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. The story is inspired by the book “The Case That Shook The Empire” by Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat.
Changing the title from “Shankara” to “Kesari Chapter 2” hints at a thematic link to the earlier hit film. This strategy aims to build excitement among audiences, especially Akshay’s fans who regard “Kesari” as one of his memorable roles.
A source shared insights about the new film, stating, “While the emotional action of the original ‘Kesari’ focused on the sacrifices of Sikhs during the pre-Independence era, the C Sankaran Nair film presents a courtroom drama. Though they focus on the courage and contributions of the Sikh community against the British, the two stories are quite different. Still, due to its subject matter and the connection to Akshay Kumar, we believe ‘Kesari Chapter 2’ is a fitting title. Just like with ‘Kesari,’ this new title will also be released during the Festival of Colours.”
With a fascinating historical premise, an impressive cast, and a festive release date, “Kesari Chapter 2” is already becoming one of the most anticipated movies of 2025. Fans are eager for another engaging experience featuring Akshay Kumar, cinema, and a sense of national pride.
