Jaihind 2 (also known in Tamil as Arjunin Jai Hind 2 ) is a 2014 Indian action drama film written, produced and directed by Arjun Sarja, who also stars in the lead role.[1] It is the sequel of his previous film Jai Hind, and was simultaneously made in Telugu and Kannada with the latter titled as Abhimanyu.[2][3]
Jaihind 2/Abhimanyu was released on 7 November 2014 and became a commercial success in Kannada, but did not perform well in Tamil and Telugu. The film's Kannada version won the Karnataka State Film Award for Second Best Film.[4]
The film explores India becoming a superpower, as it appeared in A. P. J. Abdul Kalam's dreams, and also tries to tackle the issues in the education system.
Premise
Abhimanyu is a computer service engineer and martial artist who gets disturbed by the money making schemes by private schools which resulted in the death of a poor child's parents and begins to fight for the children's rights to education.
Gana Bala (special appearance in "Ayya Padichavare")
Jahangir (special appearance in "Ayya Padichavare")
Production
The film shoot was launched on 9 June 2013 in a grand manner in Mumbai and budgeted at ₹20 crore.[3][5] The huge set resembling a jail was erected by art director Sasidhar at a cost of ₹25 lakh.[6] A high-octane action sequence was filmed in a former army facility in Bangkok.[7]
The satellite rights of the Tamil and Kannada version were sold to Zee Tamil and Colors Kannada.
Tax Exemption Issue
The Tamil version did not get tax exemption, due to the claim that "Jai Hind" is not a Tamil word. Despite arguing to the committee members, Arjun Sarja was unsuccessful in the attempt.
The Hindu stated "Arjunin Jai Hind 2 is the kind of film about which you shrug and say, “Well, if you liked Jai Hind…”. If you have to watch a film about a one-man army, you could do worse than watch one with Arjun in it. He totally pulls it off".[10]The Times of India gave 2.5 stars out of 5 and wrote, "For most parts, Arjunin Jai Hind 2 plays like a collage of various Arjun films...What's interesting, however, is that instead of telling his story as a straightforward narrative, Arjun presents it as events from the lives of different individuals who come into Abhimanyu's life...The problem with the film is that it tells a predictable story and in a rather longwinded manner".[11]
The New Indian Express wrote, "The film conveys a relevant message, but one that could have been better executed. The saving grace is Arjun who has penned the plot and screenplay, directed and produced the film. The actor tackles his role with cool intensity. His physique well toned, the action king is a delight to watch in the fights-stunt scenes as he packs a powerful punch at his tormentors. If only his screenplay had matched the lofty message".[12]Rediff gave 2 stars out of 5 and wrote, "Unfortunately, Arjun fails as a director. Despite the good storyline, he struggles to keep the audience involved. The real issue seems lost in all the unnecessary twists and drama surrounding the characters. Patriotic action dramas have been his forte, but Jai Hind 2 neither creates empathy for the characters and their situation, nor has entertainment value".[13]
Kannada version
Abhimanyu received positive reviews from critics.
Bangalore Mirror wrote, "Abhimanyu may not be unique in how the story is told, but the idea is novel and is appealing enough".[14]Indiaglitz gave 8 out of 10 and wrote, "Terrific action, tolerable narration, appealing in contents – Arjun Sarja in his first direction in Kannada has given a 'paisa vasool' cinema Abhimanyu".[15]The New Indian Express wrote "Abhimanyu is a taut action film with a strong social message. The subject would not have lost its grip if he was a little focussed on what exactly he wanted to say. However, Arjun has put enough effort into the film to make it a worthy one-time watch".[16]
Telugu version
123telugu wrote, "On the whole, Jai Hind 2 is an out and out Arjun film right till the end. Be it his acting, stunts or direction, he handles every department convincingly. But an extended run time, forced comedy track and tedious first half an hour stops this film from becoming an complete action entertainer. Finally, all those who love serious films with a social message will end up liking this one".[17]Full Hyderabad wrote "Take a chance with this one only if you are a die-hard Arjun fan, and carry enough popcorn and soda to while away the time".[18]
