Why did Akshay Kumar demand an apology from King Charles and the British government?

At the press conference for the upcoming historical drama Kesari 2, Akshay Kumar delivered more than just promotional soundbites — he delivered a message for King Charles himself. Alongside producer Karan Johar, the Bollywood star opened up about the film’s emotional depth, his personal connection to the story, and why he believes Kesari 2 could spark a long-overdue apology from the British crown.

A family story that became a mission
For Akshay, Kesari 2 is far more than just another film — it’s a deeply personal journey. His grandfather was a firsthand witness to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, and those harrowing stories were passed down through generations in his family. Growing up with that legacy, Akshay sees this project as a heartfelt tribute to his roots and the historical truths that shaped them.

A powerful forgotten chapter in history
Akshay Kumar credited director Karan Tyagi for introducing him to the powerful story behind Kesari 2. The moment he heard it, he felt an instant connection and knew he had to be a part of it. For him, the film sheds light on a crucial yet overlooked chapter of history — one that deserves to be seen and remembered. “I want King Charles and the British government to watch Kesari 2 and understand the gravity of what happened. An apology will naturally follow — this film could be the spark”, he said.

CBFC’s decision: No cuts, just an 'A'
Addressing the film’s ‘A’ certification by the CBFC, Akshay Kumar acknowledged the board’s decision, trusting that it was made with careful consideration. Karan Johar echoed the sentiment, stating that they fully respected the certification. He added that no cuts were requested, and the film will release in its original form.

All about Kesari 2
Scheduled to hit theatres on April 18, Kesari 2 stars Akshay Kumar as C. Sankaran Nair, a courageous lawyer who took on the British Empire after the 1919 Amritsar massacre, where over 1,600 unarmed Indians were killed. The film explores the courtroom battle that followed — a story many have never heard, but one that shook the foundation of colonial rule. With Ananya Panday and R. Madhavan in key roles, and a gripping narrative that mixes emotion with hard-hitting truth, Kesari 2 promises to be more than just a film — it's a cinematic call for historical justice.