Release of ‘Ikkis’ postponed, Karan Johar expressed appreciation on Dharmendra

Karan Johar reveals his feelings towards Dharmendra’s last film ‘Ikkis’

Mumbai: Famous Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar has expressed his feelings for late actor Dharmendra’s last film ‘Ikkis’. Karan believes that seeing Dharmendra ji on screen once again will be a very special occasion for all the fans and cinema lovers. This film is Dharmendra’s last film, which will now be released posthumously.

‘Ikkis’: A story based on war dramatization

‘Ikkis’ is a war drama, directed by ace filmmaker Sriram Raghavan. The film is based on the true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra winner, who was martyred in the 1971 Indo-Pakistani war. Arun was martyred at the age of only 21, keeping in view the title of the film ‘Ikkis’. The lead role will be played by Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson Agastya Nanda, who is set to make his theater debut.

Dharmendra’s character and Karan’s statement

Dharmendra ji plays Arun’s father Brigadier M.L. in the film. Playing the character of Khetarpal. While talking to reporters during the trailer launch of his production film ‘Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera’, Karan Johar said, “I am eagerly waiting to watch ‘Ikkis’. This film is very special for all of us. We have so much respect and love for Dharmendra ji. His demise is a big loss for us. Seeing him on screen for the last time will be a priceless happiness for the fans.”

Dharmendra’s demise: end of an era

Karan further revealed that he has personal affection for young artistes like Agastya Nanda and Ananya Pandey. Dharmendra ji died on 24 November 2025 at the age of 89. Dharmendra, known as the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood, did more than 300 films in six decades. He made a place in the hearts of the audience with classic films like ‘Sholay’, ‘Chupke Chupke’. His last release was ‘Teri Baton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya’, but ‘Ikkis’ will be remembered as his last performance.

New release date of ‘Ikkis’

The release date of the film was earlier 25 December 2025, but now it has been scheduled for 1 January 2026. The reason for this change is the success of other big films running at the box office, due to which ‘Ikkis’ will get better screens and shows. Jaideep Ahlawat, Sikandar Kher and Akshay Kumar’s niece Simar Bhatia will also be seen in important roles in the film. ‘Ikkis’ is not only the story of a brave soldier, but it will also pay tribute to Dharmendra ji. This film will be full of emotional moments for the fans.