Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], May 1: The highly anticipated historical drama Kesari Veer is set for theatrical release on May 16, and the cast is actively promoting the film across platforms. With a powerful ensemble that includes Suniel Shetty, Sooraj Pancholi, and debutant Akanksha Sharma, the film explores the valor of Hindu warriors who defended the Somnath temple.
Veteran actor Suniel Shetty, who plays a key supporting role, praised Sooraj Pancholi’s performance and addressed initial concerns about his casting. “Whenever I take up a project, I know who the hero and heroine are. In this film, I am just one of the characters, but the lead is Sooraj, and it will remain that way,” he told.
Referring to potential backlash online, Shetty added, “Initially, there were fears about what would happen, especially about how the toxic world of social media would react to Sooraj’s casting. But then we thought — who are these toxic people anyway? We removed those thoughts from our minds. It doesn’t matter to us anymore. And now, when I see the film, I can say Sooraj is wonderful in it.”
Sooraj Pancholi shared insights into the film’s historical context, saying, “Kesari Veer is a true story about our Hindu warriors. It tells the tale of how our warriors protected the Somnath temple and stood up for our Hindu brothers and sisters. This film is about unity, about being brave from within. It’s a story about standing up for what is right, and it’s a very special film.”
Akanksha Sharma, who marks her Bollywood debut with Kesari Veer, expressed gratitude for being part of the project. “It is a huge blessing for me to work with Suniel sir and Sooraj in my very first film. I never imagined I would get to be part of such an important film at the start of my career,” she said.
Directed by Prince Dhiman and produced by Kanu Chauhan, Kesari Veer also features Vivek Oberoi in a significant role. The film was initially scheduled to release on March 14 but was postponed to May 16.