The Ikkis film from Bollywood has everyone buzzing because of Dharmendra's potential last performance on the big screen. Fans who have seen previews say they left the theater with tears in their eyes after being moved by his performance as a father mourning the loss of a child. This film about soldiers fighting during wartime is directed by Sriram Raghavan and is a true story about a young man who was a soldier, it has a lot of emotional weight.
Dharmendra's Heart-Touching Role in Ikkis
Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal(Brigadier) is playing the father of Hero Arun Khetarpal (Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal) in this story. The "quiet" pain of the father and his dignity gave credence to the loss of the son on screen. Friends from the film industry (director Anil Sharma) expressed on social media how much it felt like a farewell to a giant of the cinema to have seen the great DHARMENDRA perform.
It has been said that although the performances of the actors did not include a lot of dialogue, that they were simply so emotionally charged that they stole the show. One of the fans stated that the performances were the "Soul Of This Film" and that they were "heartbreaking". It is a stretch to say that this film is like a subsequent chapter in DHARMENDRA's illustrious career of playing tough, loving men, from SHOLAY to the most recent film.
Quick Story Overview
A battle hero, a young officer, Arun Khetarpal defeats all enemy tanks in the Battle of Basantar during World War II alone prior to dying in combat. As a film, it shows the transformation of his life from being a happy cadet to a brave soldier. It illustrates the camaraderie of his family with emphasis on the bond he shares with his dad, while also capturing the sadness and joy of his life as well as the action of the film.
Emotional Beats
Focus on father-son love amid grief, with powerful battle scenes and a nod to peace across borders. No over-the-top fights—real heroism shines through quiet strength.
Ending Tease
Tribute to Arun's legacy, leaving viewers inspired and teary, honoring unsung soldiers.
Main Cast of Ikkis Movie with Roles
Here is the key cast list from the film Ikkis, based on official credits and reviews. Roles center on the 1971 war story of Arun Khetarpal.
- Agastya Nanda as Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal: The young hero and PVC winner who charges into battle.
- Dharmendra as Brigadier Madan Lal Khetarpal (M.L. Khetarpal): Arun's proud yet grieving father, delivering emotional depth.​
- Jaideep Ahlawat as Brigadier Jaan Mohammad Nisar: A key Pakistani officer, adding balance to the war view.​
- Simar Bhatia as Kiran Kochar: Arun's love interest, bringing warmth to his personal life.​
- Sikandar Kher as Risaldar Sagat Singh: Indian army figure supporting the frontline action.
- Vivaan Shah as Captain Vijender Malhotra: Fellow soldier in key battle moments.
- Ekavali Khanna as Mrs. Nisar (Maryam Nisar): Wife of the Pakistani brigadier.
- Rahul Dev as Lt Col Hanut Singh: Commanding officer in the Indian forces.​
- Asrani as Asghar: Supporting character in the wartime narrative.
Agastya Nanda Shines as Arun Khetarpal
As Arun Khetarpal/ Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, Agastya Nanda, who is now the grandson of Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan, has shown that he can go from a fun-loving boy to being a courageous warrior. Viewers have reported that his performance was so sincere that they wanted nothing more than for him to be victorious in the 1971 Indo-Pak war.
Arun led a very short but heroic life with a climactic conclusion at the Battle of Basantar, which earned him India’s highest recognition for bravery, the Param Vir Chakra. When viewed in the context of the training that went into preparing for the role, the authenticity and tension of each battle scene are palpable.
Comparison: Ikkis vs Other Biopics
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Dharmendra's Top Emotional Roles List
- Sholay Thakur
- Apne Father
- Now Ikkis Peak
Box Office Predictions for Dharmendra's Ikkis
Week 1: Rs 15-20 crore on buzz. Families boost weekend. Long run if reviews hold.
