Some stories are not made for entertainment alone—they are meant to be remembered, felt, and passed on. The upcoming Hindi film Ikkis belongs to that rare category. It is not merely a war film, nor just another biographical drama. It is a cinematic tribute to Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, whose life ended at just 21 years of age during the 1971 Indo-Pak War, but whose courage became eternal.
Directed by National Award–winning filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis promises to present a raw, honest, and emotionally grounded portrayal of war—free from unnecessary glamorization. The title itself, Ikkis (Hindi for twenty-one), quietly yet powerfully reflects the youth, sacrifice, and immortality of a soldier who gave everything for his country before most people even begin adult life.At a time when war films often focus on spectacle, Ikkis aims to focus on human courage, duty, loss, and the price of freedom.
Ikkis Movie Release Date: Theatrical & OTT Information
Theatrical Release Date
The makers of Ikkis have officially confirmed that the film will release in cinemas on:
📅 December 25, 2025
The Christmas holiday release positions the film for a wide audience reach across India and overseas markets. Initially planned for October 2, 2025, the release was rescheduled to ensure better scale, post-production quality, and a festive window.
Distributed internationally by Yash Raj Films, Ikkis will see a global theatrical release, with special emphasis on immersive big-screen war sequences.
OTT Release Date (Expected)
While the official OTT platform has not yet been announced, industry trends strongly suggest:
- OTT release window: 6–8 weeks after theatrical run
- Expected streaming date: February 2026
The film is likely to stream on a major premium platform, considering its scale and production backing.
The Real Hero Behind the Film: Who Was Arun Khetarpal?
Before understanding the film, it is essential to understand the man.
A Young Officer with an Old Soul
Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal was commissioned into the Indian Army’s 17 Poona Horse regiment after graduating from the Indian Military Academy (IMA). Barely months into service, he was recalled from training to join active combat during the 1971 Indo-Pak War.He was young, newly commissioned, and yet entrusted with responsibility that demanded exceptional courage.
The Battle of Basantar: Where History Was Written
Background of the Battle
The Battle of Basantar was fought in the Shakargarh sector during the 1971 war. Pakistani forces attempted a massive armored counter-attack using Patton tanks to break through Indian defenses across the Basantar River.The situation was critical. A breakthrough would have allowed enemy armor to penetrate deep into Indian territory.
“My Gun Is Still Working”
Commanding his Centurion tank named Famagusta, Arun Khetarpal responded immediately to a desperate call for reinforcements.
In intense combat:
- He destroyed multiple enemy tanks
- His own tank was struck and ignited.
- He was severely wounded
Ordered to abandon his tank, his response became legendary:
“No sir, I will not abandon my tank.
My gun is still working.”
Despite fatal injuries, he continued fighting and personally destroyed four Pakistani tanks before being hit again—this time fatally.His stand halted the enemy advance, saved the position, and ensured victory in the sector.For this supreme act of bravery, he was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra—India’s highest military honor.
Ikkis Movie Story: Beyond the Battlefield
Ikkis is not just about tanks and gunfire. The film explores:
- The emotional cost of war
- The silence behind bravery
- The bond between a soldier and his father
- The loneliness of command
- The price families pay for freedom
The narrative reportedly balances battlefield realism with personal moments, especially the relationship between Arun and his father.
Ikkis Movie Cast: Bringing History to Life
Agastya Nanda as Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal
In his first major theatrical role, Agastya Nanda shoulders an enormous responsibility—portraying a real national hero.
This role is considered a defining moment in his career, demanding:
- Emotional restraint
- Physical discipline
- Authentic military presence
Early reports suggest his performance focuses on quiet courage rather than loud heroism.
Dharmendra as Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal
Legendary actor Dharmendra plays Arun’s father, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal.
This role is deeply emotional and widely believed to be among Dharmendra’s final major screen performances, adding immense weight and poignancy to the film.
Jaideep Ahlawat
Known for intense, layered performances, Jaideep Ahlawat reportedly plays a Pakistani Brigadier, offering a grounded and realistic portrayal rather than a caricatured antagonist.
Simar Bhatia
Making her debut, Simar Bhatia plays the female lead, adding a human, emotional dimension to Arun’s personal life.
Supporting Cast
The film also features:
- Sikandar Kher
- Rahul Dev
- Ekavali Khanna
Key Cast & Crew
| Role | Name |
| Lead Actor | Agastya Nanda |
| Supporting Actor | Dharmendra |
| Director & Writer | Sriram Raghavan |
| Producer | Dinesh Vijan |
| Production Houses | Maddock Films, Jio Studios |
| Cinematography | Anil Mehta |
| Music | Sachin–Jigar |
Direction & Creative Vision
Sriram Raghavan’s Approach
Known for thrillers like Andhadhun, Sriram Raghavan takes a measured, respectful approach with Ikkis.
Key creative principles:
- No unnecessary dramatization
- Faithful representation of events
- Focus on human emotion
- Respect for military accuracy
Production Scale & Budget
- Estimated Budget: ₹125 crore
- Use of real restored Centurion tanks
- Authentic military locations
- Practical effects over CGI
The original tank Famagusta, now a museum artifact, served as a reference during filming.Trade experts expect ₹200 crore+ worldwide box-office potential.
Why Ikkis Matters Today
In an era of fast content and fleeting attention, Ikkis serves as a reminder that:
- Freedom comes at a cost
- Courage does not require age
- Heroes are often quiet
- Sacrifice deserves remembrance
FAQs
Q1. When is the Ikkis movie releasing?
Ans:December 25, 2025.
Q2. Is Ikkis based on a real story?
Ans:Yes, it is based on the life of Param Vir Chakra awardee Arun Khetarpal.
Q3. Who plays Arun Khetarpal in the film?
Ans:Agastya Nanda.
Q4. What does “Ikkis” mean?
Ans:“Ikkis” means twenty-one—the age at which Arun Khetarpal was martyred.
Q5. Who directed Ikkis?
Ans:Sriram Raghavan.
Q6. What is the movie’s budget?
Ans:Approximately ₹125 crore.
Q7. When will Ikkis release on OTT?
Ans:Expected 6–8 weeks after theatrical release (February 2026).
Conclusion: More Than a Film, A Legacy
Ikkis is not just cinema—it is memory, respect, and responsibility. It tells the story of a 21-year-old who chose duty over life, courage over fear, and sacrifice over survival.With sincere performances, authentic storytelling, and emotional depth, Ikkis aims to ensure that Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal is not just remembered—but felt.As its Christmas 2025 release approaches, Ikkis stands poised to become one of the most meaningful and emotionally resonant war films in Indian cinema history.
