Some films announce their emotional weight even before the story begins. Ikkis is one such film — not just because it tells the story of Param Vir Chakra awardee Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, but because it approaches that story with restraint, sincerity, and quiet conviction. Set against the backdrop of the Battle of Basantar during the 1971 India–Pakistan War, the film chronicles courage, sacrifice, and legacy without being loud. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, known for thrillers (Ek Hasina Thi, Johnny Gaddaar, Agent Vinod, Badlapur, Andhadhun, Merry Christmas) driven by tension and moral complexity, Ikkis marks a significant tonal shift. Yet, the discipline of his storytelling remains intact. The narrative is engaging throughout, never distracted by excess, never tempted to sensationalise war. Instead, Raghavan allows silences, pauses, and carefully chosen moments to do the heavy lifting — a choice that ultimately defines the film’s emotional strength.
At the centre is Agastya Nanda, portraying Arun Khetarpal with sincerity and quiet resolve. In only his second outing (after The Archies on Netflix), Agastya appears far more assured here. From his physical bearing to his appearance, costumes, and mannerisms, he fits the role naturally — never projecting heroism, but allowing it to emerge through action and intent. His transformation from cadet to officer feels organic, particularly during the defence academy sequences, which are energetic, youthful, and alive with camaraderie. The sequences at the National Defence Academy (NDA) stand out — evocative and refreshingly unburdened by contemporary cinematic clutter.
The emotional anchor of Ikkis, however, is Dharmendra as Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal (Retd.), Arun’s father. His presence elevates every scene he inhabits. There is a depth to his dialogue delivery, a lived-in gravity to his performance, that charges the film with emotion without leaning into sentimentality. A particularly moving moment arrives as a Punjabi poem flows quietly into a tearful remembrance during his visit to his ancestral home in Sargodha, Pakistan. Performance and direction work in unison here, transporting the viewer to another time — to memories of belonging, loss, and histories fractured by borders.
Jaideep Ahlawat delivers a performance marked by control and nuance as Brigadier Khwaja Mohammed Naseer of the Pakistan Army. His portrayal feels unfamiliar in the best way. Expressions, silent glances, and weighted one-liners combine to create a presence that is restrained yet deeply impactful. In his interactions with Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal, the film achieves something rare — guilt and empathy without dilution. It is difficult not to be moved by this human exchange across enemy lines, a tonal choice seldom explored in mainstream Hindi war cinema.
The post-interval stretch places the viewer firmly within the battlefield. The war sequences are immersive, detailed, and grounded, drawing attention to tactical nuance rather than spectacle. A striking top-angle combat sequence stands out for its clarity and emotional force, reinforcing the chaos and gravity of combat without visual excess.
Two gestures, mirrored in intent, quietly define Ikkis. In one scene, Jaideep Ahlawat holds Dharmendra’s hand and leads him to a tree; in another, Dharmendra returns the gesture, holding his hand and guiding him home. No words are exchanged, yet everything is understood. In these simple acts, the film finds its deepest emotion — a reminder that compassion often survives where conflict does not.
Music and background score play a vital role in sustaining this emotional undercurrent. The score never overwhelms; it creates mood, enhances tension, and gently carries the narrative forward. The songs feel like a breeze — unforced, purposeful, and in rhythm with the film’s emotional arc. They bring energy where needed and restraint where silence speaks louder.
That silence is often more powerful than dialogue. The writing is selective, almost minimalist, yet impactful. One exchange between two ISI operatives — questioning whether headquarters is capable of “hearing silences” or merely fast-forwarding through them — quietly underlines the film’s philosophy. Ikkis trusts its pauses. There are few lines that feel redundant; each carries intent, weight, or consequence.
As the film moves toward its conclusion, words become increasingly unnecessary. The visual exchanges between Agastya Nanda and Jaideep Ahlawat in the final reels communicate more than dialogue ever could — respect, recognition, and the quiet tragedy of opposing duties. It is in these moments that Ikkis feels most powerful.
Ikkis positions itself as a rare war film that balances emotional depth with narrative discipline. It carries the weight of history, the strength of performances, and the poignancy of a legend’s final act without leaning on excess. Thoughtful, immersive, and sincere, the film has the potential to resonate across audiences — not through noise, but through feeling.
Finally, dear Dharamji, you have left a void — and with Ikkis, a final reminder of the quiet power you always carried on screen.
Movie: Ikkis
Director: Sriram Raghavan
Cast: Late Dharmendra, Jaideep Ahlawat, Agastya Nanda, Simar Bhatia, Vivan Shah, Sikandar Kher, Rahul Dev
Run Time: 2hrs 27.45mins
Theatrical Release Date: 1st Jan 2026
