Actor Ananya Panday has officially joined the cast of Kesari: Chapter 2, starring alongside Akshay Kumar and R. Madhavan. The announcement was made on March 28 by Dharma Productions, unveiling a motion poster that introduced Panday as Dilreet Gill, a character described as “embraced by compassion, fueled by justice.” In the poster, she is seen donning a white saree, symbolizing her role as a determined lawyer fighting for justice.
The film is a gripping period drama that delves into the aftermath of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, one of the most tragic and pivotal events in India’s history. Based on the book The Case That Shook The Empire by Pushpa Palat and Raghu Palat, Kesari: Chapter 2 explores the relentless battle for justice led by C. Sankaran Nair, the renowned lawyer and activist played by Akshay Kumar. His unwavering fight against British colonial rule set the stage for a historic legal battle that challenged the empire’s oppressive actions.
R. Madhavan joins the ensemble as Neville Mckinley, a character noted for his sharp mind and fearless approach. His presence adds depth to the narrative, ensuring a powerful clash of ideologies and courtroom drama. The film, produced by Dharma Productions, Cape of Good Films, and Leo Media Collective, has already generated immense anticipation, especially after the official teaser was unveiled earlier this week.
Ananya Panday’s involvement in this historical drama marks a significant addition to her evolving filmography. Having previously starred in films like Student of the Year 2, Pati Patni Aur Woh, Gehraiyaan, and Liger, she now steps into a more serious and layered role. Her portrayal of Dilreet Gill is expected to showcase a different facet of her acting skills, as she embodies a woman fighting for justice in a time of political and social turmoil.
The announcement of her role has been met with enthusiastic responses from both fans and fellow celebrities. Her close friends Navya Nanda and Suhana Khan, along with her mother Bhavana Pandey and Maheep Kapoor, took to social media to express their support and excitement. The film’s cast and crew have also shared their admiration for Panday’s commitment to the role, emphasizing that she brings a fresh energy to the narrative.
With its powerful storyline, stellar cast, and rich historical backdrop, Kesari: Chapter 2 is poised to be one of the most anticipated releases of 2025. The film is set to hit theaters on April 18, 2025, promising audiences an intense and thought-provoking cinematic experience. As the release date approaches, fans eagerly await more glimpses of the film, hoping to see how this chapter in history unfolds on the big screen.
