Kesari 2: R. Madhavan Calls Being Called ‘Slave’ a Bigger Insult, Talks About Playing a Negative Role

Akshay Kumar and R. Madhavan Open Up at Kesari 2 Trailer Launch

Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar unveiled the highly anticipated trailer of Kesari 2 in Delhi, sparking intense discussions around the film‘s powerful dialogues and historical themes. The film, directed by Karan Singh Tyagi and produced by Dharma Productions, revisits the tragic Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919.

During the trailer launch event, Akshay Kumar addressed a journalist’s question about his character using a cuss word in the film. In a scene featured in the teaser, Kumar, portraying lawyer S. Sankaran Nair, is seen saying ‘F*** you.’ When asked about this choice of language, Kumar turned the focus towards a larger issue—the insult of being called a ‘slave’ by the British during colonial rule.

“Yes, I used that word,” Kumar said. “But what’s more shocking is that the word ‘slave’ doesn’t offend people as much. I think there is no bigger insult than that.” His statement resonated with the audience, emphasizing the film’s theme of India‘s fight for dignity and freedom.

Kesari 2 and the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre

Set against the backdrop of one of the darkest chapters in Indian history, Kesari 2 brings to light the tragic events of April 13, 1919, when British troops opened fire on thousands of peaceful protestors in Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar. More than 1,500 people were killed, with over 1,200 injured in what has been described as a brutal act of oppression. The film aims to depict this event through the lens of resistance and justice, focusing on lawyer S. Sankaran Nair’s fight against British authorities.

R. Madhavan on Playing a Negative Role: “I Want People to Hate Me”

R. Madhavan, who plays British lawyer Neville Mckinley in Kesari 2, also shared insights about his role and the complexity of playing a negative character.

Speaking at the event, the actor stated that he doesn’t classify roles as positive or negative; rather, he focuses on the depth and significance of the character.

“I don’t see a character through the lens of good or bad,” said Madhavan. “I want to take up roles that challenge me as an actor. When I read the script of Kesari 2, I knew this was a story that needed to be told.”

Madhavan’s portrayal of Neville Mckinley—one of the key figures involved in the British administration—adds another layer of tension to the film. The actor expressed that the Jallianwala Bagh massacre was not just a tragedy but a ‘genocide’ that needed to be addressed in cinema.

The Making of Kesari 2: A Stellar Team Behind the Film

Produced by Karan Johar and Apoorva Mehta under Dharma Productions, Kesari 2 boasts an ensemble cast featuring Akshay Kumar, R. Madhavan, and Ananya Panday. The film is directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, a Harvard law graduate, whose expertise in historical narratives brings authenticity to the project.

Madhavan praised the team, highlighting how meticulous the research process was. “This is not just another period drama,” he stated. “It’s a powerful retelling of real events that shaped India’s freedom struggle.”

Kesari 2: Release Date and Expectations

Scheduled for release on April 18, 2025, just five days after the anniversary of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, Kesari 2 is expected to strike an emotional chord with audiences worldwide. The film not only revisits history but also raises crucial questions about colonial oppression and India’s fight for justice.

With a gripping narrative, a stellar cast, and a thought-provoking storyline, Kesari 2 is set to be one of the biggest Bollywood releases of the year.

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As anticipation builds for Kesari 2, the film’s trailer launch has already sparked crucial discussions about India’s colonial past, freedom, and resistance. Akshay Kumar’s bold statements, coupled with R. Madhavan’s powerful performance, ensure that this historical drama will not only entertain but also educate and inspire audiences.