The much-awaited war drama, Ikkis by Sriram Raghavan, is all set to hit the silver screen with a grand release on 25 December 2025. Helmed by Dinesh Vijan under the banner of Maddock Films, the film follows the incredible life and valor of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, one of the youngest Param Vir Chakra awardees from India.
The film, which was earlier planned to be released on Gandhi Jayanti, October 2, had its date changed to Christmas to cash in on the holiday box-office window and avoid big clashes. Shooting for Ikkis concluded earlier this year, and since then, the makers have been releasing promotional material in the form of a first-look poster, followed by a thrilling trailer, which came out on October 29.
In the heart of Ikkis lies the story of Arun Khetarpal, who, at the young age of 21 years, gave his life in service during the Battle of Basantar in the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War, referenced directly in the film’s title. The emotional depth of the story lies beyond the battlefield because the film has also portrayed the poignant moment when, years later, Khetarpal’s father, Brigadier ML Khetarpal, visited Pakistan, giving a rare human dimension to the narrative of war.
Agastya Nanda plays Arun Khetarpal, one of the most significant roles of his career so far. The young actor’s intense portrayal has already become a talking point as he carries the responsibility of bringing to life one of India’s most revered war heroes. The film also features Dharmendra in one of his final on-screen roles, Jaideep Ahlawat, Sikander Kher, Ekavali Khanna, and Mohan Godara.
Cinematography by Anil Mehta and music by Sachin–Jigar, who have composed both the songs and background score, promise a visually rich and emotionally layered experience. Raghavan, known for critically acclaimed thrillers such as Andhadhun and Johnny Gaddaar, makes an ambitious turn into a large-scale war narrative while retaining his signature taut storytelling.
Early online discussions indicate strong curiosity around the film’s scale, performances, and real-life inspiration. Debates about Agastya Nanda’s casting continue, due in part to ongoing nepotism conversations, but more viewers have praised the film’s intense production design and realistic war sequences featured in its trailer.
With its patriotic theme, star-studded cast, and emotional weight of a true war legend’s tale, Ikkis is poised for one of the major Indian releases of late 2025. With Christmas in sight, anticipation keeps on mounting for a film that will not only entertain people but also pay respect to the memory of a young soldier whose bravery remains etched in the annals of Indian military history.
