As anticipation builds for the release of Kesari Chapter 2, Akshay Kumar is poised for a significant comeback after a series of underwhelming box office performances. The film is set to hit theaters on April 18, 2025, and early indications suggest a promising start, with an estimated Rs 2.06 crore already generated from advance bookings, according to industry tracker Sacnilk.
Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, Kesari Chapter 2 stars Kumar alongside R. Madhavan and Ananya Panday. This historical courtroom drama focuses on the aftermath of the infamous Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919 and the subsequent legal battles that ensued. Kumar portrays C. Sankaran Nair, an Indian lawyer who challenged the British Empire in court, while Madhavan plays Neville McKinley, the lawyer defending the Crown.
The film's advance ticket sales have been encouraging, with nearly Rs 1 crore worth of tickets sold from the total earnings. The film will have over 3,700 shows across India, with significant screenings planned in major cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, and Pune. Specifically, Kesari Chapter 2 will feature 594 shows in Gujarat, 814 in Maharashtra, 199 in Punjab, and 413 in Delhi.
Despite the positive early numbers, the film faces tough competition from other recent releases. Jaat, which opened to Rs 9.5 crore last week, has set a high bar. However, trade analysts believe that the patriotic theme of Kesari Chapter 2 could resonate well with audiences and boost its performance over the weekend.
Earlier in 2025, Kumar starred in Sky Force, which opened with a robust Rs 12 crore. However, Khel Khel Mein, another of his releases, only managed to earn Rs 40 crore, significantly overshadowed by the blockbuster Stree 2, which grossed around Rs 600 crore. The recent string of flops has raised questions about Kumar's marketability, but Kesari Chapter 2 could mark a turning point.
As the film gears up for its release, Kumar expressed his hopes for the movie's impact. Speaking at a premiere in New Delhi attended by various dignitaries, he admitted, "I didn’t know about it... I just only knew what happened in Jallianwala Bagh and that’s it. Our history books never taught us about what followed. I just hope and pray that the British government watches this film and acknowledges what went wrong. With folded hands, I say this."
The film is based on the book The Case That Shook The Empire by Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat, and it aims to shine a light on the lesser-known aspects of Indian history. Critics and politicians who attended a special screening lauded the film's portrayal of the events surrounding the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
Notably, Delhi CM Rekha Gupta praised the film, stating, "It is a marvellous movie. I always say that we will never get the chance to die for our country, but we can surely live for our country. So many people sacrificed their lives for the freedom of our country, and they got lost in history; we don't even know their names."
As the release date approaches, the excitement surrounding Kesari Chapter 2 continues to grow. With its powerful narrative and star-studded cast, the film is expected to attract a diverse audience, particularly those interested in India's historical narratives.
In terms of box office predictions, trade insiders have varied estimates for the film's opening day earnings, with some suggesting it could reach between Rs 5 crore and Rs 8 crore. The most optimistic forecasts predict a net haul of up to Rs 9 crore. Regardless of the initial figures, the film's potential to garner strong word-of-mouth could play a crucial role in its long-term success.
As the countdown to April 18 continues, fans and industry experts alike are eager to see if Kesari Chapter 2 will live up to the high expectations set by its predecessor and the buzz surrounding its release. With a compelling storyline and a historical backdrop, it promises to be not just a film but an important cultural commentary on a pivotal moment in Indian history.
As the film gears up for its release, the marketing team has also been active, with promotional events and fan screenings planned in various cities. The buzz on social media is palpable, with many users expressing their excitement and anticipation for the film. The promotional strategy seems to be resonating well, with many fans calling for Kumar to receive a National Award for his performance.
Overall, Kesari Chapter 2 stands at the intersection of entertainment and education, aiming to not only entertain but also enlighten audiences about a significant chapter in India's struggle for independence. As the film prepares to hit theaters, it is clear that it has the potential to make a lasting impact, both at the box office and in the hearts of its viewers.
