Ikkis: Simar Bhatia Expresses Fondness for Agastya Nanda, Praises His Incredible Talent

Marking her entry into Bollywood with the release of "Ikkis" on January 1, 2026, Simar Bhatia, niece of actor Akshay Kumar, has shared a heartfelt note expressing her admiration for her co-star, Agastya Nanda. In a touching Instagram post on December 31, 2025, Bhatia conveyed her gratitude to her family, teachers, and colleagues for their support in shaping her journey.

Bhatia, who is the daughter of Alka Bhatia and the granddaughter of Akshay Kumar's mother-in-law Dimple Kapadia, is making her debut alongside Agastya Nanda in the Sriram Raghavan-directed war biopic, "Ikkis". The film also features veteran actors like the late Dharmendra and Jaideep Ahlawat. "Ikkis" is based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, a Param Vir Chakra recipient and narrates the story of the 1971 India-Pakistan war. Nanda essays the role of Khetarpal, while Bhatia plays his love interest.

Simar expressed immense gratitude towards director Sriram Raghavan for his patience and guidance during her introduction to the world of cinema. "To my director, @sriram.raghavanofficial, it is an honour to be introduced into the world of cinema by you," she wrote. "Thank you for your gentleness, patience, and love for storytelling. That passion is something I carry forward".

Acknowledging her co-star, Agastya Nanda, Simar penned a warm note, "Aggy, I have grown so fond of you. You are truly incredible in this film. I can't wait for the world to witness the greatness of 2/Lt Arun Khetrapal through you. Thank you for making this journey feel shared, never lonely".

Bhatia also extended her gratitude to the entire team of "Ikkis," recognizing their crucial role in bringing the project to fruition. "IKKIS is not just a film to me," Simar shared. "It means I am finally getting the chance to do the one thing I dared to dream of doing. Your reassurance and courage in giving me a beginning is something I will always honour".

Looking ahead, Simar expressed her hope for 2026 to be a year of expression, encouraging everyone to express their love and appreciation to those around them. She concluded her note with "Mann Neevan. Matt Ucchi (Simple living high thinking)".

Simar Bhatia's debut in "Ikkis" marks a significant moment for the young actress, who has waited patiently for the right opportunity to enter the Bollywood industry. With a strong family background and guidance from acclaimed director Sriram Raghavan, Bhatia's performance in "Ikkis" is highly anticipated.