Akshay Kumar’s much-anticipated sequel Kesari 2 has hit theatres with mixed fortunes, earning ₹30 crore in its opening weekend.
While this may seem like a respectable figure, it pales in comparison to the performance of its predecessor, Kesari (2019), which had grossed approximately ₹60 crore in its first three days. The 50% dip has sparked discussions across the industry, raising questions about the film’s appeal, timing of release, and overall competition at the box office.
One of the major challenges facing Kesari 2 is the stiff competition from two other major releases—Sky Force and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan—both of which are currently outperforming it at the box office. Sky Force, with its gripping aviation drama and strong word-of-mouth, has been pulling in significant numbers, while Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, a high-octane action comedy starring Tiger Shroff alongside Akshay Kumar himself, has found favor with younger audiences and fans of big-screen spectacle.
Critics have offered varied opinions on Kesari 2. While the film continues the patriotic theme that resonated in the original, many felt that the emotional depth and narrative urgency that defined Kesari was somewhat diluted in the sequel. The action sequences and production values have been praised, but there’s a consensus that the storyline lacks the originality and poignancy needed to drive repeat viewership.
Another factor affecting the film’s box office trajectory may be franchise fatigue. Despite Akshay Kumar’s continued popularity, audiences seem more selective with sequels, especially when they feel overly formulaic. The original Kesari had the benefit of novelty and emotional weight, based on the historic Battle of Saragarhi. Kesari 2, while attempting to build on that legacy, appears to struggle with meeting heightened expectations.
Trade analysts remain cautiously optimistic about the film’s longer-term performance, noting that holiday periods or strong overseas reception could still boost numbers. However, with early trends pointing toward a lukewarm domestic response, Kesari 2 may find it difficult to match the critical and commercial success of the first installment.
For now, the box office crown appears firmly in the hands of Sky Force, with Bade Miyan Chote Miyan following close behind. Whether Kesari 2 can close the gap in the coming weeks will depend largely on audience reception, sustained marketing efforts, and potential word-of-mouth momentum.
Despite the subdued box office debut, Akshay Kumar remains steadfast in promoting Kesari 2, appearing in multiple interviews and public events to keep the film in the spotlight. Known for his relentless work ethic and marketing savvy, Kumar has shifted focus toward emphasizing the film’s emotional themes and its relevance in today’s climate of patriotism and valor. However, analysts suggest that star power alone may no longer guarantee a blockbuster opening, especially in an era where content quality and originality dominate viewer preferences.
Audience reactions to Kesari 2 have been a mixed bag. Loyal fans of the original have appreciated the sequel’s attempt to continue the spirit of bravery and national pride, but casual viewers seem less enthusiastic. Social media chatter reflects this divide. While some praise the film’s grand visuals and Akshay’s committed performance, others argue that the screenplay feels recycled, with fewer high-stakes emotional moments to anchor the action. The sequel’s reliance on similar cinematic tropes—flashbacks, slow-motion hero shots, and rousing speeches—has been called out for lacking the freshness that made Kesari stand out in 2019.
The film also faces the challenge of timing. Releasing during a crowded festive window with multiple star-studded projects sharing screen space has diluted its reach. Sky Force, with its modern, tech-heavy plot, and Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, with its comedic duo charm and explosive visuals, have arguably struck a better chord with current audiences, especially younger demographics. The multiplex crowd appears to be leaning toward innovation and variety, which may have left Kesari 2, with its traditional war-drama formula, seeming a bit out of step.
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