Agastya Nanda Stars in Upcoming War Drama "Ikkis"

Maddock Films has announced the release of "Ikkis," a war drama directed by Sriram Raghavan, set to hit theaters in December 2025. The film is based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who became the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military honor, after his sacrifice during the 1971 India-Pakistan War's Battle of Basantar. Agastya Nanda portrays Khetarpal, who was martyred at the age of 21.

First look of Agastya Nanda from Ikkis revealedMaddock Films unveils Agastya Nanda’s first look in Sriram Raghavan’s war drama IkkisMaddock Films Shares First Look of Agastya Nanda’s IKKISIkkis Poster: Agastya Nanda Looks Intense In Uniform, Maddock’s Film On 1971 India-Pakistan War To Release In DecemberAgastya Nanda Transforms into War Hero Arun Khetarpal in Ikkis First Look RevealMaddock Films shares first look of Agastya Nanda from Sriram Raghavan’s ‘Ikkis’

"Ikkis" features a notable cast, including veteran actor Dharmendra, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Sikander Kher. The film was initially announced in 2019 with Varun Dhawan set to play the lead role. However, due to delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Dhawan exited the project, paving the way for Nanda to step into the role. This film marks Nanda's second major cinematic venture following his debut in Zoya Akhtar’s "The Archies" in 2023.

Maddock Films Shares First Look of Agastya Nanda’s IKKIS

Director Sriram Raghavan emphasized that "Ikkis" aims to present a realistic portrayal of Khetarpal's life, avoiding a "comic-book hero" depiction. The narrative will focus on the human aspects of Khetarpal's story, showcasing his bravery and the emotional weight of his sacrifice. Raghavan noted that while the film will include significant war scenes, it is fundamentally a drama that captures the essence of a young soldier's journey.

Ikkis Poster: Agastya Nanda Looks Intense In Uniform, Maddock’s Film On 1971 India-Pakistan War To Release In December

Maddock Films shared the film's promotional poster on social media, stating, “Woh Ikkis ka tha, Ikkis ka hi rahega. Dinesh Vijan and Maddock Films present #Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan, a true untold story of the youngest officer recipient of the Param Vir Chakra.” The poster features Nanda in military uniform, embodying the valor of Khetarpal.

First look of Agastya Nanda from Ikkis revealedMaddock Films shares first look of Agastya Nanda from Sriram Raghavan’s ‘Ikkis’Agastya Nanda Transforms into War Hero Arun Khetarpal in Ikkis First Look RevealMaddock Films Shares First Look of Agastya Nanda’s IKKISMaddock Films unveils Agastya Nanda’s first look in Sriram Raghavan’s war drama IkkisIkkis Poster: Agastya Nanda Looks Intense In Uniform, Maddock’s Film On 1971 India-Pakistan War To Release In December

While the film has generated excitement among fans, there are concerns regarding the portrayal of historical events in cinematic adaptations. Critics often question the balance between dramatization and factual representation, particularly in films based on real-life heroes.

Ikkis Poster: Agastya Nanda Looks Intense In Uniform, Maddock’s Film On 1971 India-Pakistan War To Release In December

• “It’s not a comic-book hero version.” — Sriram Raghavan, Director

Ikkis Poster: Agastya Nanda Looks Intense In Uniform, Maddock’s Film On 1971 India-Pakistan War To Release In December

• “Woh Ikkis ka tha, Ikkis ka hi rahega.” — Maddock Films

Maddock Films shares first look of Agastya Nanda from Sriram Raghavan’s ‘Ikkis’

As the release date approaches, further promotional material and trailers are expected to be unveiled, providing audiences with more insights into the film's narrative and production quality. The anticipation surrounding "Ikkis" reflects a growing interest in stories that honor national heroes and their sacrifices.

Ikkis Poster: Agastya Nanda Looks Intense In Uniform, Maddock’s Film On 1971 India-Pakistan War To Release In December