West Bengal’s ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) has strongly criticised the makers of ‘Kesari 2’, accusing them of distorting Bengal’s role in India’s freedom struggle. The controversy began after the film allegedly misnamed iconic revolutionaries like Khudiram Bose and Barindra Kumar Ghosh.
‘Kesari 2’ accused of history distortion
An FIR has been filed against seven producers at Bidhannagar South police station under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. TMC leaders called the errors “deliberate” and “an insult to Bengal.” Khudiram Bose was referred to as “Khudiram Singh,” and Barindra Kumar Ghosh as “Birendra Kumar” from Amritsar in the film. TMC’s Kunal Ghosh said it was an attempt to erase Bengal’s contribution to history.
Bangla Ekata Mancha strongly condemns the team of Kesari Chapter 2 for the shameless distortion of history — changing the names of iconic Bengali revolutionaries like Khudiram Bose, Barin Ghosh & Hemchandra Kanungo is an insult to India’s freedom struggle. pic.twitter.com/rlmfq6X37j
— Bangla Ekata Mancha-Bengal Unity Alliance (@Bangla_EkataM) June 18, 2025
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also slammed the film, accusing the BJP of trying to erase Bengal’s heritage. The film, directed by Karan Singh Tyagi, stars Akshay Kumar and R. Madhavan. Critics, including actor Ritwick Chakraborty, demanded accountability and better historical research.