Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh is an upcoming Hindi-language historical courtroom drama that promises to uncover one of the most significant and haunting events of India’s colonial past. Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, the film is backed by prominent production houses including Dharma Productions, Leo Media Collective, and Cape of Good Films. It serves as a spiritual continuation of the 2019 hit Kesari, tying into the same theme of resistance against British imperialism.

Inspired by the book The Case That Shook The Empire by Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat, the narrative revolves around the real-life legal battle led by C. Sankaran Nair, an Indian lawyer and freedom fighter, who took on the British authorities in the aftermath of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919. The story delves deep into the courtroom struggles and personal sacrifices involved in bringing justice and truth to light.

The film boasts a powerful ensemble cast with Akshay Kumar portraying the role of C. Sankaran Nair. He is joined by R. Madhavan and Ananya Panday in key roles. Originally titled Shankara, the project underwent a title change in February 2025 to Kesari Chapter 2 to create a thematic link with the earlier film, drawing attention to the patriotic undertones and the continuity in spirit.

Producer Karan Johar officially announced the project on March 22, 2025, generating significant buzz among audiences and history buffs alike. The movie aims to portray not only the events surrounding the Jallianwala Bagh tragedy but also the intense legal battle that followed—a story that had long remained in the shadows of mainstream cinema.

Filming commenced in November 2022 with Akshay Kumar. R. Madhavan joined the cast in January 2023, and production shifted to Mumbai mid-year where an elaborate set replicating Jallianwala Bagh was built. Additional scenes featuring Akshay Kumar and Ananya Panday were later shot at IIT Roorkee. The production team then moved to Alibag for the next filming schedule.

Key sequences were also captured at historically rich locations such as Rewari Junction railway station, the Rewari Railway Heritage Museum, and iconic spots in Delhi including the Red Fort, Sunder Nursery, and the north campus of Delhi University. The filming process wrapped up completely by September 2024.

With its compelling storyline, powerful performances, and a deep dive into a landmark chapter of Indian history, Kesari Chapter 2 is shaping up to be a stirring tribute to the courage and determination of those who stood up against colonial oppression.

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