R Madhavan recalls Akshay Kumar's effort to make his role in 'Kesari 2' unforgettable: 'I'd want to know my screen time'

Actor R Madhavan is savouring the success of 'Kesari Chapter 2', helmed by Karan Singh Tyagi. The actor recently reflected on his experience working alongside Akshay Kumar and opened up about how Kumar ensured Madhavan’s character made a memorable impact. He also spoke about how he defines stardom.

In a recent conversation with Mid-Day, Madhavan, who essays the role of Neville McKinley in the period drama, credited Akshay for making sure that his character would not be forgotten at the end of the movie. Two weeks before the release of 'Kesari Chapter 2', Akshay called Madhavan at 4 am, expressing concern that, while his character would ultimately win, he did not want Madhavan’s role to be overlooked.

Madhavan and Akshay decided to travel back to the location from Dubai and Chennai respectively to film a crucial closing scene just days ahead of the movie’s release. “When people are going out of their way to do a job, you know it’s a special project,” he added.

In 'Kesari Chapter 2', Akshay steps into the shoes of C Sankaran Nair, battling the British Raj’s efforts to minimise the atrocities of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. Madhavan’s character, representing the Crown, stands firmly against him in the courtroom.



The 'Alai Payuthey' actor said that he does not take his stardom seriously. He revealed that he would like to be a pixel in the larger story, which defines his longstanding movie choices in the industry.

“If the story works, all of us benefit. I don’t take my stardom seriously, which is why I do the kind of films I do. If I took it seriously, I’d want to know my screen [time], or who’s standing in front of me. You can ask any of my producers. I’ve never asked them, ‘What’s the size of my picture on the poster?’” he added.

Madhavan shared that he values films with genuine soul, noting that sometimes smaller, heartfelt projects can unexpectedly succeed, as seen with 'Tanu Weds Manu' and 'Kesari Chapter 2'. He also pointed out how rare it is for audiences to stay until the final credits, which happened with this film.