Kesari Chapter 2, starring Akshay Kumar, R. Madhavan, and Ananya Panday, was reportedly leaked online just hours after its theatrical release on April 18, 2025. Despite this setback, the film has garnered positive reviews from both critics and audiences.
Piracy Incident
The film, a historical courtroom drama based on the life of C. Sankaran Nair and the aftermath of the 1919 Jallianwala Bagh massacre, was leaked on various piracy websites shortly after its release. This occurred despite Akshay Kumar’s appeal to fans to refrain from using their phones during screenings to prevent such incidents.
Critical and Audience Reception
Critics have praised the film’s gripping narrative and performances. The Hindustan Times described it as “hard-hitting and refreshing,” highlighting Akshay Kumar’s portrayal of C. Sankaran Nair. The Indian Express noted the film’s compelling courtroom drama and impactful dialogues.
Audience reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. Many viewers have taken to social media to express their admiration for the film’s storytelling and performances. The Economic Times reported that audiences are hailing it as Bollywood’s courtroom masterpiece, with some stating that it “commands attention with its riveting storytelling and impactful performances.”
Box Office Performance
Despite the piracy issue, Kesari Chapter 2 has performed well at the box office. Reports indicate that the film crossed the ₹2 crore mark before 2 PM on its release day and had earned ₹3 crore in advance bookings.
Conclusion
While the early leak of Kesari Chapter 2 is a concern for the filmmakers, the strong critical acclaim and positive audience response suggest that the film’s impact remains undiminished. The performances, particularly those of Akshay Kumar and R. Madhavan, along with the film’s compelling narrative, continue to draw audiences to theaters.
For more details, you can read the full reviews and reports from the sources cited above.