Akshay Kumar addresses Jaya Bachchan's criticism of his film Toilet: Ek Prem Katha

At a recent press meet for his upcoming film Kesari: Chapter 2 in Mumbai, Bollywood star Akshay Kumar addressed some unexpected criticism from veteran actress Jaya Bachchan regarding his previous film, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha.

When a journalist mentioned that Jaya Bachchan had disapproved of the film's title, Akshay responded with characteristic grace, saying, "If she has said so, she is right. If I had made a mistake by making such a film, she might be right."

Jaya Bachchan's comments came during her recent appearance at the India TV Conclave. She questioned the film's title, expressing strong reservations and even indirectly labeling it a "flop." Bachchan commented, "Just look at the title of the film; I would never go to watch a film with such a name. Yeh, koi naam hai? [Is that really a name?]" She then engaged the audience, asking how many would watch a film with such a title, noting with a touch of humor that only a few hands were raised: "Among so many people, hardly four want to watch the film; it's very sad. Yeh toh flop hai. [It is a flop.]"

Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, despite its unusual title, is renowned for its quirky love story packed with a strong social message. The film narrates the story of Keshav (Akshay Kumar), a small-town man who struggles to win back his wife Jaya (Bhumi Pednekar) after she leaves him due to the absence of a toilet in their home.

The film highlights Keshav's fight against outdated traditions and societal norms to build a toilet.

Aside from Akshay Kumar and Bhumi Pednekar, the film also features prominent actors such as Anupam Kher, Divyenndu, Sudhir Pandey, and Ayesha Raza Mishra.

Turning to Akshay Kumar's upcoming project, Kesari: Chapter 2, the film draws inspiration from Raghu Palat and Pushpa Palat's book, The Case That Shook The Empire.

It delves into the untold story of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, focusing on the pursuit of justice led by C Sankaran Nair, a distinguished lawyer and former President of the Indian National Congress.

Kesari: Chapter 2 is scheduled for release on April 18, promising a gripping depiction of a pivotal moment in India's struggle for independence.