Last Updated on Dec 31, 2025 by Puneet S Bansal
The highly anticipated Ikkis, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, has generated massive buzz ahead of its theatrical release on 1 January 2026. This biographical war drama, based on the real-life heroism of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal—India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee—is being hailed as one of the most emotionally resonant films to kick off the New Year in Bollywood.
The film traces his courage during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War, focusing not just on battlefield heroics but on the emotional journey of a young soldier who chose duty over life.
Performances That Leave an Impact
Agastya Nanda delivers his most mature performance yet, portraying Arun Khetarpal with restraint, innocence, and quiet bravery. There is no unnecessary chest-thumping — his strength lies in silence and resolve.
Dharmendra, in what is widely seen as his final on-screen appearance, brings profound emotional gravity. His presence feels symbolic — like the passing of a legacy from one generation of heroes to another.
Supporting actors Jaideep Ahlawat, Sikandar Kher, and Vivan Shah elevate the film with grounded, realistic performances.
Direction, Music & Technical Aspects
Director Sriram Raghavan surprises by stepping away from stylised thrillers into understated realism. The war sequences are tense but never exaggerated, making the violence feel real and unsettling.
- Cinematography: Earthy tones, realistic battle visuals
- Background Score: Patriotic yet subtle
- Production Design: Authentic army setups and uniforms
What Works and What Doesn’t
👍 What Works
- Honest storytelling without melodrama
- Strong emotional connect
- Respectful portrayal of Indian Army
- Performances over spectacle
👎 What Could Be Better
- Slow pacing in the first half
- Limited commercial “masala” appeal
Featured Snippet
Ikkis (2026) is a Hindi war biopic based on Param Vir Chakra hero Arun Khetarpal. Directed by Sriram Raghavan and starring Agastya Nanda, the film focuses on emotional realism, sacrifice, and patriotism rather than commercial action tropes.
Special industry screenings of Ikkis reportedly left audiences emotional, especially during Dharmendra’s scenes. The film is being described as one of the most sincere Indian war dramas in recent years.
Should You Watch Ikkis?
If you value content-driven cinema, real stories of courage, and films that respect history rather than sensationalise it, Ikkis is absolutely worth watching. This is not just a movie — it is a tribute.
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½ / 5
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