Ikkis: Agastya Nanda starrer has been released in twenty one theatres. ‘Ikkis’ is an emotional war drama and biopic, based on the true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetrapal, the youngest Param Vir Chakra winner, who was martyred during the Battle of Basantar in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. The film is directed by Sriram Raghavan, who is known for his films like ‘Andhadhun’ and ‘Merry Christmas’.
This film is the last film of late great star Dharmendra, who plays the role of Arun’s father. Agastya Nanda (Arun Khetrapal), Jaideep Ahlawat and debutant Simar Bhatia are in the lead roles. The film has been released today (January 1, 2026) and the initial reviews are quite positive. Most critics and audiences have described it as an emotional, heart touching and anti-war film, which stays away from jingoism and focuses on the human losses and sacrifices of war.
Read now on WhatsApp also, click to subscribe
‘Ikkis’ is an emotional tribute
Dharmendra’s last performance has been described as heart touching and graceful. This film is like an emotional tribute to him. Agastya Nanda has looked good in his debut film and fits the role of a young soldier. But the surprise package is Jaideep Ahlawat, whose acting is being praised a lot. Sriram Raghavan has handled the story sensitively. The film focuses on memories and emotions, away from the noise of war. The second half and climax are very emotional, which makes the audience cry. This is a non-jingoistic war film, which talks about humanity and peace. The VFX and background score are effective. The first half may seem a bit slow and uneven. The romantic track seems cumbersome at some places. The songs are not very effective, the background music is the main thing.
Users’ reaction
One said, ‘Dhurandhar’s next victim! Even after almost a month of release, the film is beating ‘Ikkis’ by selling more than 7,000 tickets per hour. Ranveer Singh’s film is making waves! Will ‘Raja Saheb’ also have to face the havoc of Dhurandhar?’
Film critic Het Tanna writes, ‘This is a mediocre film. But first, #Dharmendra sir’s farewell film – Dharam ji, you will always hold a special place in the heart of every cinema lover. His powerful appearance in the entire film is worth watching. #Ikkis depicts the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. Seeing this, one feels like saluting Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. Talking about #Ikkis, it should have awakened the feeling of patriotism – but it did not. Yes, some scenes are really good and #SriRamRaghavan has made it a perfect biopic, but the screenplay and editing did not impress me.
One said, ‘Dharmendra ji’s last message. In his last interview, Dharmendra ji talked about the film ‘Ikkis’ with pride and conviction. This is a fantastic film. Everyone should see it. These were not just words, but the last message of a great personality for cinema lovers. His voice may fade away, but his legacy will remain immortal.
One user says – Brother #Ikkis, the entire film is heavy with nepotism – grandson of #AgastyanandaKapoor dynasty and Bachchan dynasty – but what to do, he got the inheritance but not his talent.
Overall, Ikkis is a heart-warming film, especially if you like true stories, emotional drama and good acting. It is different from those war films which focus only on action and patriotism. This is a must watch for Dharmendra’s fans. If you can go to the theatre, do watch it – it’s the perfect emotional film to start the new year.
Comments are closed.