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Akshay Kumar’s latest film, Kesari Chapter 2: The Untold Story of Jallianwala Bagh, has been making waves at the box office since its release on April 18, 2025. The film, which delves into a significant chapter of India’s history, has resonated with audiences nationwide. On its eighth day, the movie witnessed a commendable performance, solidifying its position as a notable release of the year.
Day 8 Performance: A Steady Climb
On its second Friday, Kesari Chapter 2 garnered approximately ₹4.15 crore in India, bringing its total domestic collection to around ₹50.25 crore. This steady performance indicates the film’s enduring appeal among viewers. The consistent interest suggests that word-of-mouth and positive reviews are playing a significant role in drawing audiences to theaters.
Week 1 Recap: Building Momentum
The film opened with a strong start, collecting ₹7.75 crore on its first day. The weekend saw an upward trajectory with ₹9.75 crore on Saturday and ₹12 crore on Sunday. However, like many films, it experienced a dip during the weekdays:
- Monday: ₹4.5 crore
- Tuesday: ₹5 crore
- Wednesday: ₹3.6 crore
- Thursday: ₹3.5 crore
Despite the mid-week slowdown, the film managed to accumulate a total of ₹46.1 crore by the end of its first week.
Star Power and Performances
Akshay Kumar’s portrayal of C. Sankaran Nair, a lawyer challenging British colonial authority post the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, has been widely appreciated. His performance brings depth to the character, capturing the emotional and political turmoil of the era. Supporting actors R. Madhavan and Ananya Panday also deliver commendable performances, adding layers to the narrative.
Audience Reception and Critical Acclaim
Kesari Chapter 2 has struck a chord with audiences, especially those interested in historical dramas. The film’s depiction of a pivotal moment in India’s fight for independence has been both educational and emotionally stirring. While some critics have pointed out minor historical inaccuracies, the overall consensus praises the film’s storytelling and performances.
Occupancy Rates and Viewer Engagement
On its eighth day, the film recorded an overall occupancy rate of approximately 14.90% in Hindi-speaking regions. Morning shows saw a 6.39% occupancy, which increased to 27.16% during night shows. The National Capital Region (NCR) reported the highest occupancy at 9%, indicating a strong urban audience base.
Worldwide Collections and Budget Considerations
Internationally, Kesari Chapter 2 has garnered approximately $1.8 million (around ₹15.32 crore), bringing its worldwide gross to about ₹67.4 crore. Given its budget and current earnings, the film is on a promising trajectory. To be deemed a hit, it would need to reach the ₹100 crore mark, a goal that seems attainable if the current momentum continues.
Competition at the Box Office
Despite facing competition from other releases like Sunny Deol’s Jaat and Emraan Hashmi’s Ground Zero, Kesari Chapter 2 has held its ground. On its second Friday, it outperformed both films, reaffirming Akshay Kumar’s strong box office appeal.
Looking Ahead
As Kesari Chapter 2 enters its second weekend, the film’s prospects appear bright. The combination of a compelling narrative, strong performances, and positive audience reception positions it well for continued success. With no major releases on the immediate horizon, it has the opportunity to further solidify its standing at the box office.
Conclusion
Kesari Chapter 2 stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of stories that delve into India’s rich history and the sacrifices made for its independence. Akshay Kumar’s portrayal of C. Sankaran Nair brings to light a lesser-known chapter of resistance against colonial rule, offering both education and inspiration. As the film continues its theatrical run, it not only entertains but also prompts reflection on the nation’s past.For more updates on box office performances and the latest in cinema, stay tuned to our Entertainment News section.