The war drama focuses on the Battle of Basantar during the 1971 India-Pakistan War.
The film 'Ikkis', based on the life of Param Vir Chakra awardee Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who was martyred at the age of 21, is releasing on January 1, 2026. Ahead of the film’s grand release, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh attended a special screening of the war drama and met actors Agastya Nanda and Jaideep Ahlawat.
(Poster courtesy: Maddock Films)
Singh also honored the family of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal and later took to his social media to share the same. While dropping pictures with Khetarpal’s family, he wrote, “Felicitated the family members of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, PVC, and the next of kin of his tank crew at the special screening of the film 'Ikkis' in New Delhi.
Arun Khetarpal fought valiantly in the 1971 war and made the supreme sacrifice for the nation. The film 'Ikkis' showcases his bravery and celebrates the courage of our Armed Forces. Also had a wonderful interaction with the actors of 'Ikkis'. I wish them success in their future endeavors."
While Agastya portrays Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal in 'Ikkis', Akshay Kumar's niece Simar Bhatia will be seen as Kiran. This film marks late actor Dharmendra’s posthumous film appearance, and he plays Brigadier ML Khetarpal (Retd), Arun Khetarpal’s father, in the movie. The cast also includes Jaideep Ahlawat, Shree Bishnoi, Suhasini Mulay, Sikander Kher, Rahul Dev, Vivaan Shah, and others.
