A son of the soil pays tribute to roots, memory, and the true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal.
Dharmendra, one of Indian cinema’s most beloved legends, has written a heartfelt Punjabi poem for Ikkis — a film that brings to life the extraordinary courage of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee. With the verse “Aj bhi ji karda hai, Pind apne nu jaanwa,” Dharam ji returns to the mitti that made him, reminding us that no matter how far a man goes, his soul remains anchored to his roots. A true son of the soil, he infuses the film with an emotional truth that only he could offer.
Produced by Dinesh Vijan and Maddock Films, and directed by National Award-winner Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis carries this poem like a blessing — a tribute from one immortal legend to another.
More about Ikkis
Continuing Maddock Films’ tradition of bringing the most powerful stories to life, this film is not just a war drama. It is a mirror to the spirit of youth. The film is based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. He was awarded the Param Vir Chakra posthumously and lived an exemplary life. The makers had earlier released a one-minute teaser showcasing a Telegram shared during the time of the India-Pakistan war: Battle of Basantar in 1971. The letter reported the unfortunate demise of Arun Khetarpal during the Indo-Pak war in 1971, as per the teaser.
This is a story of courage, conviction, and the fire of youth — the kind that changes the course of history and reminds us what true bravery looks like. Through Arun’s journey, Ikkis explores questions of morality, mortality, patriotism, and the power of young blood that rises when the nation calls. Agastya Nanda steps into the role of a 21-year-old who became immortal.
Apart from Agastya, the film also stars Jaideep Ahlawat and Sikandar Kher in pivotal roles. Akshay Kumar`s niece Simar Bhatia will also be seen making her acting debut with this biographical war drama.
The film releases worldwide on 25th December.
Dharmendra dies at 89
Veteran actor Dharmendra died due to age-related ailments on Monday, November 24, 2025, in Mumbai, amid growing uncertainty around his health and well-being.
For the unversed, the actor was admitted to the hospital earlier this month after complaining of breathlessness. Since then, he had been critical state. After being discharged from the hospital, he continued to receive medical treatment at home. He breathed his last earlier on Monday and was laid to rest at the Pawan Hans crematorium in the presence of close friends and family.