The film Kesari, based on the Battle of Saragarhi fought in 1897, was a legendary battle fought between 21 Sikhs and 10000 Afghans.
As a Sikh myself, I have heard references of this fight ever since my childhood but I never delved deeper.
Therefore, when the trailer for Kesari came out, my expectations were at an all time high.
Given Akshay Kumar’s Punjabi background and his action star image, I knew he will be convincing in the role of Havildar Ishar Singh, the man who led the army of 21 Sikhs into battle.
Though I’m pleasantly surprised that a production house like Dharma picked up this story. They have not done anything of this sort in the past. It would be interesting to see how they relay the story of Saragarhi on screen.
After watching the trailer, I was personally very satisfied that this story will come out finally for people to see. Additionally, I will also get a chance to delve deeper into the story of which I’ve heard only random references.
The only thing I’m disappointed in is the costume department. I found Akshay Kumar’s costume and the army of 21’s costume to be more or less authentic.
Read More: Who Was Havildar Ishar Singh, The Man Who Led 20 Sikh Soldiers Against 10,000 Afghans?
But in the few shots that Parineeti Chopra appeared, the energy dropped for me, having a lot to do with her contemporary Punjabi suit salwar style. I doubt it was the same in 1897.
It seemed as if the Afghan army’s costumes weren’t given a thought. They were extremely underwhelming and seemed to have the same problem as with Parineeti’s costume, they appeared too contemporary.
I had two favourite moments in the trailer. First, when the Afghan army representative threatens Ishar Singh that his army will be defeated and killed in a jiffy, there is a moment of silence which is followed by the signature Akshay Kumar swag when he utters, “Chal Jhootha.”
Second moment is the last shot of the trailer and the most chilling one too. A Sikh man, with his whole body on fire, walks like a lion towards the Afghan army as they watch him in sheer horror.
This moment took the cake for me.
I can’t wait to watch the film on the big screen on 21st March. How about you?
Image Credits: Google Images
Sources: YouTube
Other Recommendations:
