Get ready to witness one of India’s most emotional and heroic war stories unfold on the big screen. Director Sriram Raghavan, known for his gripping storytelling, is back — this time with Ikkis, a film that celebrates the extraordinary courage of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, one of the youngest and most fearless heroes in Indian Army history.
Produced by Maddock Films, the trailer of Ikkis has already struck a deep emotional chord with viewers. Starring Agastya Nanda in his first major theatrical role and the legendary Dharmendra, the film promises to deliver not just action and patriotism, but a heartfelt story of sacrifice, duty, and family.
🎥 A Glimpse Into the Life of a Legend
The trailer opens with a soul-stirring narration — a father’s voice remembering his son — as the visuals take us through Arun Khetarpal’s journey from a spirited cadet at the National Defence Academy to a heroic tank commander leading his men in the 1971 India-Pakistan war.
Agastya Nanda, who was last seen in The Archies, steps into the challenging role of Arun Khetarpal with surprising depth and restraint. His performance captures both the innocence of a young officer and the steely resolve of a soldier who refuses to back down. Fans can’t stop talking about how Agastya’s intense eyes and subtle emotions bring Arun’s character to life in every frame.
The emotional heart of Ikkis, however, lies in the relationship between Arun and his father — played by veteran superstar Dharmendra, who portrays Lt. Col. (later Brigadier) M.L. Khetarpal. Through the father’s eyes, the audience witnesses not just a war, but the personal loss and pride of a parent who raised a hero.
⚔️ The Battle That Defined Bravery
For those unfamiliar with the real story — Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal was commissioned into the 17 Poona Horse regiment shortly after graduating from the Indian Military Academy. During the Battle of Basantar in December 1971, his squadron faced impossible odds.
When Pakistani forces advanced with superior numbers and firepower, Arun led his tank unit through a heavily mined area, destroying ten enemy tanks in a display of unmatched courage. Even when his own tank was hit and engulfed in flames, he refused to retreat. His last words to his commanding officer, as recorded in Indian Army history, were heartbreaking yet immortal:
“No, Sir, I will not abandon my tank. My gun is still working, and I will get these bastards.”
Moments later, he succumbed to his injuries — but his bravery became legend.
🌟 Legacy of a True Hero
For his unparalleled valor, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honour. He was only 21 years old — the youngest recipient of the medal.
Many people often ask, “Who exactly was Major Arun Khetarpal?” To clarify — Arun never reached the rank of Major; he died as a Second Lieutenant during the 1971 war. His story, however, continues to inspire generations of soldiers and civilians alike.
Another question that has long intrigued fans is, “Did Arun Khetarpal’s father ever visit Pakistan?” — and the answer is yes. In a remarkable moment of humanity years later, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal met the Pakistani officer who had faced his son in battle. Their emotional meeting is said to have brought tears to everyone present — a testament to how courage transcends borders.
As for “What is Arun Khetarpal’s caste?” — Arun belonged to a Punjabi Khatri family, but those who knew him say he never defined himself by caste or background. For him, the only identity that mattered was that of an Indian soldier.
💬 Fans React
Social media is flooded with love and admiration after the Ikkis trailer dropped. Viewers are calling it “the most emotional war film since Uri,” praising Sriram Raghavan’s realistic direction and Agastya Nanda’s transformation. Some even say the young actor has finally stepped out of his legendary lineage’s shadow to claim his own space in Bollywood.
Film lovers are also thrilled to see Dharmendra in a powerful, emotional role that perfectly suits his gravitas. One fan wrote, “From Sholay to Ikkis, Dharmendra proves he’s timeless — the scene with his son’s letter made me cry.”
🗓️ When Will Ikkis Release?
Directed by Sriram Raghavan and produced by Maddock Films, Ikkis also stars Jaideep Ahlawat and a talented supporting cast. The film is set for a theatrical release in December 2025, and it’s already being hailed as one of the most anticipated biographical war dramas in recent memory.
🎬 Final Word
With its mix of emotion, patriotism, and raw storytelling, Ikkis isn’t just another war movie — it’s a cinematic salute to a real hero whose courage continues to define what it means to serve the nation.
As the trailer closes with Arun Khetarpal’s tank charging into the enemy line, one thing is certain — this December, every Indian heart will beat a little faster. ❤️
Stay tuned for more updates, behind-the-scenes moments, and emotional fan reactions from the world of Ikkis — only here!
🎥 Watch & Learn More
The official trailer of Ikkis was released by Maddock Films.
Watch the official trailer here.
To know more about the real-life hero,
read Arun Khetarpal’s story on Wikipedia
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