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Ikkis: Movie Review and Release Live Updates: Agastya Nanda-Simar Bhatia starrer opens strong at the box office

As the global box office gears up for a blockbuster-heavy 2026, 'Ikkis' bravely becomes the first Hindi release of the year to ste...

As the global box office gears up for a blockbuster-heavy 2026, 'Ikkis' bravely becomes the first Hindi release of the year to step onto the box office battlefield. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, the war drama opens in theatres on January 1, putting Agastya Nanda at the forefront of the New Year box office race.
Nanda, who made his screen debut in Zoya Akhtar’s 'The Archies', takes on his first lead role in a theatrical release as Second Lieutenant Arun Khetrpal, the youngest recipient of India’s highest military honour, the Param Vir Chakra. 'Ikkis' chronicles Khetrpal’s life and sacrifice during the Battle of Basantar in the 1971 Indo-Pak war, where he was martyred at the age of 21.
Agastya’s performance has already drawn praise from his grandfather, Amitabh Bachchan, who penned a glowing review on his blog after watching the film. Calling his grandson’s work “perfection in every shot,” Bachchan wrote, “tonight to see him in frame, unable to take my eyes off each time he fills the frames of the film…” He further described Ikkis as “flawless in its presentation… its writing… its Direction,” adding that the film left him “with tears of joy and pride… unable to speak out… in silence.”
From a trade perspective, 'Ikkis' is opening on modest note. Early trends suggest that the film's advance bookings are just around the Rs 1 crore mark. Early industry estimates state that the film could just open to numbers around the Rs 2 crore range, while overseas performance may just push the film to a Rs 3–4 crore worldwide opening.
The film’s release comes after a series of delays. Originally slated for a Christmas debut, 'Ikkis' was pushed back by a week amid the box office dominance of 'Dhurandhar', which continues to draw in the big bucks even a month into its release.
The film also starring Jaideep Ahlawat, Sikandar Kher and newcomer Simrar Bhatia, marks the final on-screen appearance of Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24 at the age of 89.

The Times of India | Jan 01, 2026, 21:20:03 IST

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21:20 (IST), Jan, 01

Ikkis opens strong at the box office with Rs 6.6 crore India net on Day 1

Ikkis has made a promising start at the box office, living up to expectations on its opening day. As per early estimates, the film has earned around Rs 6.6 crore net in India on Day 1. The solid opening reflects positive audience interest and sets the stage for a potentially strong weekend performance.

17:58 (IST), Jan, 01

Praise for Agastya Nanda, Simar Bhatia, and direction

Agastya Nanda also received a lot of praise for his performance. One user wrote, “Ikkis honors PVC Arun Khetarpal while decisively changing the cinematic template of war films in India. Here’s welcoming #AgastyaNanda and #SimarBhatia to movies. They are sincerely brilliant on screen, and you’d want to see more of them. Their chemistry feels very organic. I’m sure it wouldn’t have been easy for Agastya to get under the skin of PVC Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, but he does it effortlessly.”
Jaideep Ahlawat’s performance was also loved. A viewer said, “Jaideep Ahlawat is one of the exceptional talents we have, you give him any role and he just nails it every damn time.”

16:44 (IST), Jan, 01

Dharmendra’s final screen appearance leaves fans teary

Dharmendra’s role has touched people deeply. For many viewers, watching him on the big screen one last time was emotional. One review read, “The film truly belongs to the legendary Dharmendra in his final on-screen role. Playing the grieving father, his silent, dignified performance is heartbreaking and anchors the emotional core. Unlike typical actioners, this is an intimate, claustrophobic look at war that honors both a young martyr and a cinema icon. A deeply moving watch.”

16:10 (IST), Jan, 01

Viewers praise the emotion and quiet strength

Many viewers said Ikkis is not loud or flashy. One user wrote, “#Ikkis is about what remains after the battlefield falls silent. It explores love, duty, grief, and the enduring human spirit—emotions that transcend borders, uniforms, and politics. By choosing empathy over glory, the film achieves something rare in modern-war cinema.”
Another viewer shared, “Sriram Raghavan’s Ikkis is a poignant masterpiece that chooses raw emotion over loud noise. ????????✨ Agastya Nanda shines in a sincere breakout performance as 2nd Lt. Arun Khetarpal, perfectly capturing the journey from innocent boy to battlefield hero.”

15:55 (IST), Jan, 01

Ikkis hits theatres and touches hearts

Ikkis is finally out in theatres, and viewers are already talking about it with full hearts. The war drama is directed by Sriram Raghavan and tells the true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. He was India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee. The film stars Agastya Nanda in the lead role. Dharmendra appears in his final screen role, and Jaideep Ahlawat plays an important part.

14:34 (IST), Jan, 01

Fans miss veteran star Dharmendra

Missing the legendary actor, a fan on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “There is a tenderness in Dharam Ji's presence on screen that just organically makes you well up. No wonder he was loved for so many years! One last time ”

14:03 (IST), Jan, 01

A salute to bravery on screen

A fan on X (formerly Twitter) shared that they recently watched ‘Ikkis’. He called it an exceptionally crafted film with precision in every frame. Each actor delivers to perfection, making the story hit even harder. Agastya Nanda proves he’s truly the real deal, while Jaideep Ahlawat shines with pure genius. The fan also talked about missing Dharam Ji and expressed gratitude to bravehearts like 2nd Lt. Arun Khetarpal for their unforgettable sacrifice.

13:32 (IST), Jan, 01

Performances that stay with you

Watching Ikkis left the fan deeply touched. They praised Sriram Raghavan’s bold storytelling and the film’s heartfelt intent in today’s times. They admired Dharmendra’s emotional presence and Jaideep Ahlawat’s powerful acting. Calling it a warm and inspiring start to the new year, he expressed pure love for the film’s message and impact.

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12:31 (IST), Jan, 01

The person shared the review of the second half of the film

He wrote, "#Ikkis: 2nd half is better .. in the 2nd part of the 2nd half, there is intensity with respect to both emotions & actions .. Jaydeep & Dharam Ji shine, Agastya is okay .. Movie has the real background but overall its neither in current mood of the cinegoers nor the execution of the storyline is at the right pace, seems slow .. Will write detailed review later but 3 stars fr me & just a one time watch, not a bad film but lacks the spark .. Maybe another medium is required to show it .."

11:35 (IST), Jan, 01

A person on his X account posted a review of 'Ikkis'

He wrote, "#Ikkis: First half looked dull .. while there are emotions but its not with current mood of the audience .. lets see whether the 2nd half brings any change or not..."

11:10 (IST), Jan, 01

You will be Arun for life: emotional Mukesh Khetarpal to Agastya Nanda after watching 'Ikkis'

Mukesh Khetarpal, Arun Khetarpal's brother, could not stop crying after seeing his brother's life unfold on the big screen in Sriram Raghavan's "Ikkis" and he praised Agastya Nanda for perfectly embodying his late brother.

In a video shared on Instagram, Mukesh can be seen watching the film in a theatre and crying inconsolably later. Mukesh praised Nanda and said, "Whatever else you are, you will be Arun for life. There is no taking that away from you. Well done!"

In a conversation with director Sriram Raghavan, Mukesh said, "My grouse is you made me cry. You made me relive... Certain things were in my mind, and moment by moment, when I saw it on screen, I got so emotional I couldn't stop crying. Now that I have seen the movie, I mean, the movie is 10 times or maybe 20 times or 100 times what we see in the trailer. Oh, fantastic!"

11:00 (IST), Jan, 01

Agastya Nanda reveals 'Music played a huge role in helping me understand my character in Ikkis'

After treating the music lovers with some memorable numbers such as "Sitaare", "Ban Ke Dikha Ikkis", "Tera Aashiq", and "Sajda", the makers of the much-awaited war drama "Ikkis" have unveiled the complete music album of the film.

Sharing his thoughts on the album, Agastya released a statement saying that music played a crucial role in helping him understand his character in the movie as a young soldier.

Agastya shared, “Seeing the love each song has received has been truly overwhelming. Music played a huge role in helping me understand my character and its emotional journey. Listening to the complete album now feels like revisiting those moments on set which were honest, emotional, and very close to my heart.”

Actress Simar Bhatia, who will be seen as his love interest in the movie, added, “The love the songs have received has been incredibly special. Each track feels deeply emotional and purposeful. The music doesn’t just support the film, it becomes a part of the characters, and that’s what makes this album so close to my heart.”

10:54 (IST), Jan, 01

Subhash Ghai remembers Dharmendra after witnessing his last performance in 'Ikkis'

Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai got a little emotional after witnessing the overwhelming response received by Dharmendra's last release "Ikkis" during a special screening.

Ghai expressed his delight that everyone loved the movie and also applauded the performances by the core cast, comprising Jaideep Ahlawat and Agasta Nanda.

Congratulating the Deol family and the makers of "Ikkis", Ghai wrote on his Instagram, "My heart goes for DHARAM pa ji last film IKKIS which got a warming applause YESTERDAY AT ITS PREMIER in Mumbai. (sic)."

"I m so glad that everyone praised the movie s emotional drama n performances. I must watch this. Sure...My hearty congratulations to dear deol family n team of maddock films with special compliments for jaideep alahwat n Agastya nanda fot their brilliant performances. Stay blessed always (Folded hands emoji) love," the 'Taal' maker added.

On Tuesday, actress Ameesha Patel also thanked Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol for hosting a special screening for "Ikkis".

The 'Gadar' actress claimed that Dharmendra's cute innocence made "Ikkis" a heartwarming watch.

Calling the movie "sweet and endearing", Ameesha shared on social media, "Thank u @iamsunnydeol n @iambobbydeol for the special screening of @aapkadharam ( Dharamji’s) last film — a fitting tribute to our LEGEND!! Such a sweet, emotional n endearing film that truly touches ur heart !! Only Dharamji n his cute innocence cud have made IKKIS so heartwarming to watch (Folded hands emojis)."

10:52 (IST), Jan, 01

Abhishek Bachchan lauds Agastya Nanda's dedication for 'Ikkis'

Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan penned a lengthy note on social media, praising his nephew, Agastya Nanda, for his work in the upcoming film "Ikkis", calling it "a huge honour and responsibility".
"Agastya, this is a huge honour and responsibility!! A huge hero of our nation. I am sure you have given him the respect, valour and dignity he truly deserves. You are an immensely sincere actor and your dedication to portraying Arun ji is so commendable. May God and the audiences bless you. #KeepFightingTheGoodFigh," he wrote.

10:47 (IST), Jan, 01

"Eyes filled with tears of joy and pride": Emotional Amitabh Bachchan reviews grandson Agastya Nanda's 'Ikkis'

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan got emotional after watching his grandson, actor Agastya Nanda's performance in 'Ikkis'. Big B, who recently attended a screening of the upcoming war biopic, took to his blog and penned a heartfelt note.

Revisiting some rare memories from the time when Agastya was born to watching him on the big screen, Amitabh Bachchan wrote, "Emotions flow.. As do they tonight when you witness the grandson excel in IKKIS .. the time when his Mother, Shweta is being rushed to Breach Candy Hospital as she encounters final labour pains .. his birth .. holding him barely a few hours later, and discussing whether his eyes were blue .. to the time when he grew a bit and holding him in my arms, and he fiddles with my beard .. to his growth .. to the final personal decision of his to be an actor, and tonight to see him in frame, unable to take my eyes off each time he fills the frames of the film."

Hailing Agastya's performance in the film, Big B described how he showcased an "unfiltered honesty" while portraying Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal.

"When he is in the frame you only watch him .. and this is not a grandfather speaking, this is a hardened viewer of cinema.. And the film flawless in its presentation.. its writing.. its Direction..And when it ends .. the eyes filled with tears of joy and pride.. unable to speak out.. In silence. The silence that belongs to me.. my understanding.. no other," he concluded.

10:00 (IST), Jan, 01

Director Sriram Raghavan: 'Ikkis' is not an easy film to make

Raghavan, best known for making thrillers like “Ek Hasina Thi”, “Johnny Gaddaar”, and “Merry Christmas”, said he has tried his best to do justice to the life story of Khetarpal.

"My journey with this film began seven years back when I first heard the story. In 2019, I went to Chandigarh where I was called on December 16 (death anniversary) to lay a wreath on Arun Khetarpal’s statue. I met so many people who were associated with him.

"That particular moment, I made a promise to myself, ‘Do this film, man and do as good as we can’. I wanted Arun to help me and somewhere he is being there with us throughout the film. It is not an easy film to make. We were shooting all over north India. Now, that the film is over, we’re looking forward to you watching it and reacting to the film.”

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09:42 (IST), Jan, 01

You’re never too young to change the world: Agastya Nanda on playing Arun Khetarpal in ‘Ikkis’

Actor Agastya Nanda, who has stepped in the shoes of youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient Arun Khetrpal in "Ikkis", hopes the movie will resonate with younger audiences.

Directed by Sriram Raghavan, the film narrates the story of Khetarpal, a second Lieutenant, who was martyred at the age of 21 during the Battle of Basantar in the 1971 Indo-Pak war.

"Cantonments have started feeling like home, we’ve been training for three years (for this film). Being here is like a family. For me, the main thing that stood out was how young Arun Khetarpal is, and I would like to address the young kids sitting here. I hope you learn something from the life of Arun Khetarpal,” Nanda said at an event of “Ikkis” here held at South Mumbai’s Navy Nagar, a cantonment area.

“He was a brave and passionate soldier. If there’s anything that we take away from this film is that, ‘You’re never too young to change the world’. This is mainly for younger people out here. My immense pride and gratitude to those who are part of the Indian army,” he said.

09:40 (IST), Jan, 01

Agastya Nanda on Ikkis' song 'Sitaare': 'Arijit Singh’s voice gives me goosebumps'

“Ikkis” officially kicked off its musical campaign with the release of “Sitaare”, sung by the maestro Arijit Singh. The song, which is an emotionally charged love ballad, promises to linger in the hearts of the audience. Talking about the same, Agastya Nanda, on whom the song is featured, said, “‘Sitaare’ is the emotional heartbeat of our story, and it feels like stepping into a little bubble of calm and love before Arun’s life takes a dramatic turn.”

He added, “Watching the visuals blend with Arijit Sir’s voice feels surreal and gives me goosebumps. I hope listeners feel the softness and sincerity we tried to bring into every frame.”

Adding to it, actress Simar Bhatia, who essays the female lead in the movie, said, “There’s so much sincerity in ‘Sitaare’. It’s soft, intimate, and full of delicate emotions. It sets the tone for Arun’s journey in such a beautiful way. I hope the audience connects to the emotions, honesty and the quiet magic we felt while filming it.”

09:10 (IST), Jan, 01

"I wanted Dharmendra to see the film in its entirety": 'Ikkis' director Sriram Raghavan

The legendary Dharmendra passed away weeks before the release of his film 'Ikkis', leaving a deep void among his family, fans, and well-wishers.
As 'Ikkis' director Sriram Raghavan recalls, Dharmendra never got the chance to watch the film completed or the appreciation that his performance would have received; it won't be wrong to say that his absence will bring an added weight to 'Ikkis' - turning it into an emotional farewell to the icon.

Speaking to ANI, Sriram Raghavan opened up about Dharmendra's association with the upcoming war biopic, which features Agastya Nanda in the lead as Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal.

Recalling that Dharmendra was already unwell during the final dubbing sessions in October, Raghavan shared, "I met him in October. That time he was okay, but he was not too well. He did watch the first half and waited for the second half. I wanted him to see the film in its entirety. Somehow, that couldn't happen. He is not here to enjoy the work he had done, and people appreciate that. That is a regret we have."

In a few recollections, the 'Badlapur' director revealed how Dharmendra used to write dialogues in Urdu before the shoot.

"He's old school. He would write his dialogues in Urdu. And he would also write the core actor's dialogues. He was extremely well-prepared," he added.

08:59 (IST), Jan, 01

Amitabh Bachchan on ‘Ikkis’ getting postponed for January 1 release: ‘Astrologers say it’s a good omen’

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan, whose grandson Agastya Nanda stars in the film, shared his thoughts on the delay.

“Ikkis” was first scheduled to release October 2, which was later shifted. It was then scheduled for a Christmas release on December 25 alongside Kartik Aaryan’s romantic comedy drama “Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri.” However, it is now set for a solo release on January 1.

Taking to his blog, Amitabh wrote: "IKKIS pehle PACCHIS (25) ko thi, ab hogi CHHABBIS (26), pehli (1) ko; kuch jyotish vidya wale kahe, bhai, shagun hai accha, chale chalo, bas chale chalo!!"

(It was on the 25th before, now it will be on the 26, on the 1st; some astrologers say, brother, it’s a good omen, let’s go, just let’s go!!)"

08:47 (IST), Jan, 01

Karan Johar speaks up on watching Dharmendra for one last time on screen in ‘Ikkis’

KJo attended the trailer launch of his upcoming production ‘Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri’, and spoke about the recent releases, and the upcoming films as 2025 draws to a close.

KJo told the media stationed at the venue, “I'm incredibly, incredibly proud of the success of ‘Dhurandhar’ and my congratulations to the entire team. It's a phenomenal film. I've heard the best things about ‘Avatar: Fire and Ash’ but I've also heard amazing things about our film. And I know that it's a Christmas release and I think it's a festive release”.

He further mentioned, “I would also like to take the opportunity to say how I'm looking forward to watching ‘Ikkis’. It's such a special film to all of us. For me, for personal reasons, we have such great regard, respect and reverence for Dharamji. And it's been a tremendous loss to all of us. And watching it for one last time would mean the world to all of us as fans and cinegoers. And also, it's Agastya's film. I've known Agastya. So I think all of us can do exceedingly well in the cinemas. And the whole power should be with the box office of Indian cinema. Because when we prosper, you prosper. And when you prosper, we prosper. It's just really fascinating”.

08:02 (IST), Jan, 01

Sunny Deol posts BTS video of father Dharmendra from 'Ikkis', urges fans to celebrate the legend in theatres

Just days ahead of the release of the war film 'Ikkis,' actor Sunny Deol remembered his father, legendary actor Dharmendra, as he shared a behind-the-scenes video from the movie, where the 'He-Man' will be seen in a posthumous appearance.
Sunny Deol posted a video on Instagram from the final day of the shoot. The clip shows Dharmendra speaking on set about his time working on the film and sharing his thoughts on its message.

In the video, Dharmendra spoke about how he wanted the film to reach audiences across borders and shared that he felt "happily sad" on the last day of shooting. Talking about the film, the late actor said, "I think India and Pakistan both should see the film. I'm a bit happily sad today, the last day of shooting. I love you all. If I made any mistakes, please forgive me."

Along with the video, Sunny added a caption that read, "A smile that lit up the darkness. Generosity without limits. Love for my papa is deeply rooted in our hearts. He has blessed us with his final film, Ikkis. Let's celebrate him in movie halls this New Year."

07:50 (IST), Jan, 01

Sunny Deol’s shares video of father Dharmendra asking Indians, Pakistanis to watch ‘Ikkis’

The late actor Dharmendra, who will be posthumously seen in the upcoming film ‘Ikkis’, once said that he wishes that people of both India and Pakistan watch the film.

The late actor’s elder son Sunny Deol took to his Instagram, and shared a BTS video from ‘Ikkis’. In the video, Dharmendra said, “I'm extremely happy to be in the Mandav films. The team, the captain, Shriram ji. It was done in a very nice way”.

He further mentioned, “I think India and Pakistan both should see the film. I'm a bit happily sad today, the last day of shooting. I love you all, if I made any mistake, please forgive me”.

Sunny wrote in the caption, “A smile that lit up the darkness. Generosity without limits. Love for my papa is deeply rooted in our hearts. He has blessed us with his final film, Ikkis. Let’s celebrate him in movie halls this New Year”.

07:31 (IST), Jan, 01

'Ikkis': All you need to know about film starring Agastya Nanda

Made under the direction of the National Award-winning filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, "Ikkis" is the cinematic adaptation of the real-life story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal - India’s youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra.

Set against the backdrop of the 1971 Indo-Pak conflict, Agastya Nanda brings to life the brave soldier on screen whose heroic deeds and sacrifice have forever been inked in India’s military history.

The film chronicals his journey as a cadet at the National Defence Academy, followed by him being a part of the 1971 India-Pakistan war as a tank commander.

During the Battle of Basantar, his regiment provided crucial armour support to another unit. Displaying remarkable bravery, Khetarpal took on the enemy head-on, destroying 10 Pakistani tanks before losing his life.

07:25 (IST), Jan, 01

Karan Johar says 'So so proud' after witnessing the trailer of Agastya Nanda's 'Ikkis'

Filmmaker Karan Johar is in love with the trailer of Agastya Nanda's upcoming war drama "Ikkis".

After witnessing the initial glimpse of the drama, a proud KJo shared on his Instagram Stories, "LOVED!!! This one is going to be a solid film !!!! Sriram in his A game !!! Loved you AGGY!!!! So so proud !!!! Props and big love to @maddockfilms (sic)."

07:20 (IST), Jan, 01

'Ikkis' is about what soldiers go through in a war: Sriram Raghavan

Asked about balancing the thin line between patriotism and jingoism in a war film like “Ikkis”, Raghavan gave the example of two films of Hollywood actor-director Clint Eastwood: “Flags of Our Fathers” and “Letters from Iwo Jima”, both of which, he said, portrayed the Battle of Iwo Jima from American and Japanese viewpoints.

“So, everyone has families and it’s not that the other soldier doesn't have a family. It's about humanity, it’s not about the enemy and it's about what soldiers go through in a war wherever you're from. We are talking about conventional war,” Raghavan said.

Vijan said he admires the way Raghavan, known as the master of thriller genre with movies such as "Ek Haseena Thi", "Johnny Gaddar" and "Andhadhun", has shown a different side of patriotism in “Ikkis”.

"Sriram Raghavan will always give you a new experience. It is a patriotic film, he (Nanda) is screaming out of his lungs and saying, 'I'll not abandon my tank as my gun is still working’. But the way he is performing, and the tone, you actually believe him.

"Sriram had told me once in the last half-an-hour of the film that every time he goes inside, you feel he is underwater and he is trying to come up. I feel when you watch it you will realize this. War is something we've not experienced in this way.”

07:10 (IST), Jan, 01

'Ikkis' requires space in theatres: Producer Dinesh Vijan

Filmmaker Dinesh Vijay says it was a conscious decision to move the release date of "Ikkis" by a week as he felt the much-anticipated war drama requires space to breathe in theatres.
The film, based on the life of youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient Arun Khetrpal, was earlier slated to release on December 25 but it will now arrive in theatres on January 1, next year.

On Christmas, the film would have clashed with Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday’s “Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri”. Ranveer Singh-starrer “Dhurandhar” is enjoying a good run in cinema halls since its release on December 5, and James Cameron’s “Avatar: Fire and Ash” just released.

The Maddock Films honcho said it was a good decision to postpone the release of the movie, directed by Sriram Raghavan and starring Agastya Nanda, Amitabh Bachchan's grandson, by a week.

"I feel you should make a decision that is good for everyone, and that will help you as well. It's a film that requires space. We are lucky that we're getting a solo date at the beginning of the year. This happened with 'Chhaava' and 'Pushpa' also, it happened with 'Hindi medium' movies. This is kind of not to have clutter.

"In the new year, we're also ready to watch a good film. We get a run. So, it works overall for the business because all the films get space to breathe. It's not like there's a film there, we get a solo release. So, when god is giving, take it," Vijan said while responding to a question posed by PTI during a media interaction.

07:08 (IST), Jan, 01

'You are special': Amitabh Bachchan praises grandson Agastya Nanda

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan showered love and blessings on his grandson Agastya Nanda, who is set to make his big screen debut with the upcoming war drama 'Ikkis'. The film, directed by Sriram Raghavan, tells the story of India's youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal.

After watching the trailer of 'Ikkis', Amitabh Bachchan took to X to express pride in Agastya's portrayal of the young and valiant soldier, describing the moment as deeply emotional and special.

"Agastya ! I held you in my hands as soon as you were born .. few months later, I held you again in my hands and your soft fingers reached out to play with my beard .. TODAY you play in Theatres all over the World .. You are SPECIAL .. all my prayers and blessings to you .. may you ever bring glory to your work and the greatest PRIDE for the family," Amitabh Bachchan wrote.

07:07 (IST), Jan, 01

'Innocent, loving, jovial': Jaideep Ahlawat recalls working with Dharmendra in 'Ikkis'

Actor Jaideep Ahlawat said that sharing screen space with veteran star Dharmendra in Sriram Raghavan's upcoming war drama "Ikkis" was an experience he will cherish for life. Ahlawat, who plays a key role in the biographical film based on the life of Param Vir Chakra awardee Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, said he joined the project knowing Dharmendra was already part of the cast.

"I never thought this would be his last film. When I came aboard the project, he was already attached, and I was very excited to work with him -- my father was a huge fan of him. During the shoot, my father met him as well, and in my entire life, I had never seen my father nervous or behaving like a fanboy," Ahlawat said.

According to Ahlawat, Dharmendra’s presence had a transformative effect on the filming environment.

“As an actor, it’s hard to describe what it was like to work with him. He was such a legendary figure in Indian cinema, but when I met him, I realised he had a childlike quality. He came across as an innocent, loving, and jovial person," he said.

"The atmosphere on the set would change the moment he walked in. I feel lucky that I have the most scenes with him in the movie. The memories from that shoot are a treasure I will hold for a lifetime," he added.

07:06 (IST), Jan, 01

Jaideep Ahlawat got goosebumps when Sriram Raghavan approached him for 'Ikkis'

Ahlawat said he came across Khetarpal's story when he attended a ceremony honouring the men in uniform at the Indian Military Academy a few years ago.

“My first introduction to Khetarpal was when one of my friends was passing out from IIM Indian Military Academy (IMA) and a pipping ceremony was scheduled to happen and there it was written in bold ‘Khetarpal auditorium’. I asked him about it and my friend told me everything about Arun Khetarpal and I got goosebumps.

"Years later, when Sriram Raghavan approached me for the film, and said it is about Arun Khetarpal, I got goosebumps after 20 to 25 years. What amazed me was the bravery, passion and fearlessness in a 21-year-old boy, most of them at this age are struggling with what they want to do in life. I get emotional every time I meet you guys (army men) and I feel very jealous when I see all the officers,” Ahlawat added.

The actor said the movie, which is the last screen appearance of veteran actor Dharmendra, has been made beautifully.

07:05 (IST), Jan, 01

Being in the Army was my first dream: Jaideep Ahlawat

Actor Jaideep Ahlawat, who will be seen next in a biopic on war hero Arun Khetarpal in “Ikkis”, on Thursday said he feels “jealous” when he sees someone in the Army uniform as that was his dream when he was young.

Based on the life of the Param Vir Chakra recipient Arun Khetarpal, the film features actor Agastya Nanda in the role of Khetarpal and veteran star Dharmendra as his father, ML Khetarpal. It is directed by Sriram Raghavan, who also worked as a writer alongside Arijit Biswas and Pooja Ladha Surti.

The "Pataal Lok" star said he has many friends in the Army. The actor said he failed Services Selection Board exams twice.

"I thought I’ll be a good (Army) officer but unfortunately, I was sent back home. It is all emotional (moment) for me,” he said at an event of "Ikkis".

Ahlawat reportedly plays a decorated Pakistani army officer in the movie, which releases on December 25.

"The most difficult day in my life was when I was shooting for ‘Vishwaroopam’ in Chennai in 2013 and was coming back to Mumbai, the passing out of Officers Training Academy (OTA) was announced and at the airport I saw many boys, and I was very jealous of them.

"I’ve many friends in the Indian army. Whenever I see someone in the army uniform, I get goosebumps because that was my first dream as an 18-19-year-old boy, who wanted to be in Indian army,” Ahlawat, best known for “Gangs of Wasseypur”, “Raazi”, and “The Family Man 3”, said.

07:04 (IST), Jan, 01

Akshay Kumar gets emotional ahead of niece Simar Bhatia's Bollywood debut wit Ikkis

Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar seems to be extremely overwhelmed and thrilled as his niece Simar Bhatia is all set to make her big Bollywood debut with the movie Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan.

Now that the movie is nearing its release, the proud uncle took to his social media account to express his emotions for his niece. Sharing the poster of Simar from Ikkis, Akshay penned an emotional note. “Holding you as a tiny baby to now watching you step into the world of films… life really has come full circle,” wrote Akshay.

“Simar, I’ve seen you turn from a shy little girl who would hide behind her mom into this confident young woman ready to face the camera like she was born for it. Safar mushkil hai, but knowing you, you’ll walk into it with that same spark, that same honesty, and that same stubborn determination that runs in our family,” he suggested.

The actor, further boosting her morale, wrote, “Hum Bhatias ka funda simple hai: kaam karo, dil se karo, aur phir universe ka magic dekho.” Kumar also expressed that he is equally proud of her and even called her a ‘star’. “I’m so proud of you, beta… The world is about to meet Simar Bhatia … But to me, you’ve always been a star. Go shine! Jai Mahadev,” he concluded and tagged Simar on his social media account.

07:03 (IST), Jan, 01

'Ikkis' cast pays tribute to Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal ahead of film's release

The lead cast and the director of 'Ikkis' paid a heartfelt tribute to Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, at an event in Mumbai on Thursday.
'Ikkis' brings the true untold story of India's youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee - Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who was just 21 at the time of the 1971 Indo-Pakistani war.

Agastya Nanda is set to play the role of Lt Arun Khetarpal in the film. He will be joined by Jaideep Ahlawat and Simar Bhatia in the prominent roles. It is directed by Sriram Raghavan.

To celebrate the bravery of Lt. Arun Khetarpal, the makers organised a tribute event for the courageous hero, attended by the Indian Army and the film's lead cast.

In the presence of Lt. Gen. D.S. Kushwah and other Indian Army officers, the makers of 'Ikkis' posed for a photo with a photo of Arun Khetarpal.

Agastya Nanda also got emotional as he recalled his journey in the movie, where he portrayed the role of Arun Khetarpal. While addressing the attendees, Nanda called Arun Khetarpal a "brave and passionate" soldier of India.

"Main thing that stood out for me about this story is about how young Arun Khetarpal is. I would like to address the young kids sitting over there who've come from school. I hope that when you watch this film, you'll be able to learn something from Arun Khetarpal. He was a very brave, passionate soldier," said Agastya Nanda.

He continued, "I think that if we take anything away from this film, it's that you're never too young to change the world. So, this is mainly for the younger people out here and my immense pride and gratitude to every soldier, every person a part of the Indian Army."

'Ikkis', a war drama that chronicles the life, courage and sacrifice of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetrpal, finally hits theatres today after multiple delays. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, the film follows Khetrpal’s journey from a young, determined army officer to a national hero who laid down his life at just 21 during the Battle of Basantar in the 1971 Indo-Pak war.
'Ikkis', based on the life of the youngest recipient of India’s highest military honour, the Param Vir Chakra, captures the intensity of life on the frontlines, the bonds between soldiers, and the meaning of courage and sacrifice.
Headlined by Agastya Nanda in the lead role, with Jaideep Ahlawat, Sikandar Kher and Simar Bhatia in key supporting parts, the film also marks the final on-screen appearance of veteran actor Dharmendra, who passed away last month.
The film, originally set for a Christmas release, was postponed by a week, to avoid the 'Dhurandhar' box office blitz. However, it remains to be seen if the film has what it takes to kick off the 2026 box office in India on a high.