The war drama Ikkis, coming out soon, is the inspiring real life story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee, the country’s highest military honor. Sriram Raghavan is directing the film, with Agastya Nanda playing the lead role, a huge accomplishment for the young actor. The trailer, released on October 29, 2025, already made the audience cry and initiated debates in the country.

Who Was Arun Khetarpal

Arun Khetarpal was 21 when he sacrificed his life during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. An officer in a tank of the Indian Army’s 17 Poona Horse regiment, he showed unmatched valour during the Battle of Basantar, destroying many enemy tanks before his death. His final words, “No sir, I will not leave my tank. My gun still functions and I will get these bastards,” have found a place in Indian military folklore.

Agastya Nanda Takes a Legacy Role

Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson Agastya Nanda essays the intimidating role of Arun Khetarpal in Ikkis. The trailer showcases his transformation from a young cadet to a dashing army man, highlighting both vulnerability and valour of the character. This is Agastya’s second big outing after he debuted with The Archies, and initial response suggests he has delivered a performance replete with sincerity and depth.

Sriram Raghavan’s Vision for Ikkis

Sriram Raghavan, renowned for thrillers Andhadhun and Badlapur, goes another way with Ikkis, combining war action with emotional drama. The film does not merely stress battlefield bravery but also examines Arun’s relationships with his family, his fellow soldiers in the army, and a brief romance. Raghavan’s direction guarantees a multi-faceted storyline that pays respect to the soldier’s sacrifice and keeps his story open to a new generation.

Supporting Cast and Production

Ikkis also stars Dharmendra, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Simar Bhatia and adds gravitas and emotional depth to the story. Ikkis will be released theatrically in December 2025, directed by Maddock Films’ Dinesh Vijan in association with Jio Studios. The crew has focused on authenticity, as real-life military consultants and extensive recreations of 1971 battle sites have been done.

Why Ikkis Matters Today

In a time when war movies tend to concentrate on spectacle, Ikkis is distinct because it is emotionally grounded and historically accurate. The tale of Arun Khetarpal is not one of valor alone—of conviction, of obligation, and of the price of liberty. For children who are not familiar with his name, the film is education and motivation. For older generations, it is a reinforcement of the sacrifices made for the nation.