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Last Updated: April 27, 2025, 14:42 IST
Shashi Tharoor Commends Akshay Kumar’s Kesari 2 for Artistic Quality and Historical Significance
Shashi Tharoor expresses admiration for Akshay Kumar’s Kesari 2.
Shashi Tharoor, an MP with the Indian National Congress, recently shared his thoughts on the film Kesari: Chapter 2, starring Akshay Kumar, R. Madhavan, and Ananya Panday. He praised the film for its impressive craftsmanship, underscoring its focus on the historical injustices faced during the British rule in India.
Tharoor remarked on the film’s storytelling, acknowledging that while it takes certain creative liberties with historical accuracy, it opens with a clear disclaimer that it is a fictional portrayal. He noted that the film effectively captures the essence of resistance against colonial oppression, particularly through the portrayal of British legal proceedings.
He elaborated, “The film conveys its message with remarkable clarity. The production quality is exceptionally high. The performances, direction, and narrative flow kept my attention throughout. I had initial concerns regarding the courtroom segments possibly dragging, but the storytelling was so engaging that it maintained my focus at all times.”
In one memorable scene, Akshay Kumar, portraying the courageous lawyer C Sankaran Nair, is confronted with a dismissive remark by a British judge, reinforcing the colonial power dynamic. Tharoor humorously highlighted this exchange, indicating his long-standing admiration for Nair. “I have been an admirer of Sir Chettur Shankaran Nair for years and have spoken about his contributions. While the film may romanticize some aspects of his life, it showcases his integrity and courageous spirit. While he certainly would not have used some of the more colorful language portrayed by Akshay Kumar, the essence of the message comes through brilliantly.”
Tharoor referenced his own book to emphasize the film’s core message: the absence of a formal apology from the British government for their colonial atrocities. “Films like this serve as important reminders of historical injustices, especially the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. During my book tour in the UK, I strongly advocated for a formal acknowledgment of this tragedy. I’m pleased that the film highlights this crucial point, emphasizing that the British have never offered an apology,” he stated.
He also pointed out that despite the Prime Minister’s comments in the House of Commons during the centennial of the massacre, they were more about regret than a genuine apology. “This film serves as a timely reminder that an apology remains overdue, both for the British and for ourselves,” he added.
Tharoor concluded by commending the filmmakers for their contribution. “Kudos to the entire team behind this film; they’ve created a remarkable piece of art. I would absolutely recommend it to audiences nationwide, assuring that it’s accessible with English subtitles as well,” he stated.
Directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, Kesari Chapter 2 recounts the real-life story of nationalist lawyer C Sankaran Nair, a crucial figure who unflinchingly challenged the British authorities regarding the brutal Jallianwala Bagh incident in 1919. The film was released on April 18.
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