Agastya Nanda, who portrays Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal in the recently released war drama "Ikkis," has shared a heartfelt message following the film's debut on January 1, 2026. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, "Ikkis" tells the true story of Khetarpal, who was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military honor, for his courage and sacrifice in the 1971 Indo-Pak war.
Nanda, who made his Bollywood debut with this film, expressed deep gratitude and reflected on the significance of the character in a social media post. He stated that portraying Arun Khetarpal would "always be the most special character" he embodies, highlighting the profound impact the role had on him.
"Ikkis" not only marks a significant milestone in Agastya Nanda's career but also features the final screen appearance of veteran actor Dharmendra, adding an emotional layer to the film. Dharmendra plays the role of M.L. Khetarpal, Arun's father. The film boasts a talented cast, including Jaideep Ahlawat, Simar Bhatia, and Sikander Kher.
The film's narrative revolves around the life of Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, showcasing his journey and the circumstances that led to his martyrdom at the young age of 21. "Ikkis" captures the essence of his bravery and sacrifice during the Battle of Basantar.
Prior to its release, "Ikkis" was initially scheduled to debut in late December 2025 but was later moved to January 1, 2026, to ensure a solo release window, avoiding competition with other major films. This strategic decision aimed to provide the film with better visibility and optimal show timings.
The film has received positive responses, particularly for the performances of Agastya Nanda and Dharmendra. Mukesh Khetarpal, Arun Khetarpal's brother, was deeply moved by Nanda's portrayal, stating that he relived moments from his brother's life and was overwhelmed with emotion.
"Ikkis" has partnered with Amazon Prime Video for its OTT premiere. The film will be available for rent on the Prime Video Store starting March 12, 2026, and will be accessible to all Prime Video subscribers from March 26, 2026.
