'Ikkis' is all set to release on January 1, 2026, and those who got the chance to watch the premiere are lauding it already.
Ikkis is an ode to the bravest soldier, who didn't worry about his life and attained martyrdom for his land at the mere age of 21. The film was the most-awaited one directed by Sriram Raghavan, and it features the theatrical debut of Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia. For the unversed, Simar Bhartia is the niece of Akshay Kumar.
The biographical war drama also features the late superstar, Dharmendra, and it seems to be his last picture. The film was set to release on December 26, 2025, but it was postponed and now set to hit the theatres on January 1, 2026. Ahead of the grand release, the makers hosted a special screening of the film on December 29, 2025, and it was loved by all those who watched it first.
Post the same, Dhurandhar, casting director, Mukesh Chhabra, shared his thoughts on the film. Mukesh took to his X account, previously known as Twitter. He mentioned how gentle and honestly the film is made and it stays with you after it gets over. Starting with Dharmendra's acting, Mukesh Chhabra hailed the late legendary start and how it breaks his heart thinking that it is his last film. He wrote:
"Just watched Ikkis — a film made purely from the heart. Gentle, honest storytelling that stays with you long after it ends. Dharmendra sir… what grace, what depth. If this is your last film, it truly breaks the heart. You’ve left us with something deeply emotional and important. You will be missed, sir.."
Further appreciating Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia's work, he mentioned how they were beautiful on screen with endearig eyes and chemistry. He wrote:
"And Jaideep Ahlawat — hats off. I genuinely didn’t expect this, and I’m glad to be surprised. A warm welcome to Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia — both were beautiful on screen. Endearing eyes, lovely chemistry. Agastya’s innocence and sincerity truly shine. Special mention to Vivan Shah and Sikandar Kher — outstanding work. And above all — Sriram Raghavan. The man. The master. Once again, sir… once again. A heartfelt film, told with honesty. Cinema that feels personal. @MaddockFilms. @JaideepAhlawat."
On October 29, 2025, the trailer of the film was dropped on YouTube, and oh boy, the war drama gave goosebumps. The trailer started with Agastya as 'Arun Khetarpal' promising to his colleagues that he would bring the next Param Vir Chakra, which is the highest honour in the Army. He was clad in an army uniform with gelled hair at the back, oozing the charm of an army man.
For the unversed, Arun Khetarpal was the eldest of the two sons of Lt. Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal. The love for Army and country ran in their veins as his father, grandfather, and great-grandfather fought for the land and served in the Indian army. It was in June 1967 that Arun joined the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla. During the fierce war India-Pakistan war of 1971, Arun Khetarpal showed his bravery. When his tank caught fire, he was given orders to abandon it. Arun told his senior that his main guns were working and he would not leave the tank. As per the Army eye witnesses, the young officer fought till his last breath and destroyed 10 enemy tanks.
Well, we cannot wait to see Ikkis in theatres.
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