Kesari Chapter 2, starring Akshay Kumar, Ananya Panday, and R Madhavan, released in theatres today and has opened to strong reviews. In the film, Akshay Kumar steps into the role of Sir Chettur Sankaran Nair, a fearless lawyer who took on the British Empire following the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
During a recent promotional event, R Madhavan spoke candidly about how unaware he had been of C Sankaran Nair’s contributions to Indian history. The actor admitted that, despite being from South India himself, he had neither heard of nor studied Nair’s legacy.
A video clip now making rounds on Instagram captures Madhavan saying, “Mujhe sharmindagi hai ki main khud Sankaran Nair ke baare mein kabhi nahi suna. Na hi padha. Aur mujhe is baat ka bohot bada garv hai is film industry ke baare mein, ki Akshay Kumar jaise insaan Sankaran Nair kar rahe hain. Aur main dakshin Bharat ka hone ke bawajood North ka kirdaar nibha raha hu inke against. Aur ye isi industry mein ho sakta hai.”
Here is the video:
R Madhavan also revealed that it was Akshay Kumar who personally insisted he take on the role of Neville Mckinley in the film. He praised Akshay’s commitment to the role and expressed admiration for the kind of stories the Indian film industry is now bringing to light.
Kesari Chapter 2 not only explores a powerful chapter in India’s fight against colonial rule but is also stirring meaningful conversations around lesser-known historical figures, with Madhavan’s remarks striking a chord with many viewers.
