As the calendar prepares to turn to 2026, Indian cinema lovers are eagerly marking their calendars for a slate of promising new releases. Leading the charge on the very first day of the year is a highly anticipated debut. Agastya Nanda, grandson of legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan, is set to make his big-screen entrance with the war drama 'Ikkis' on January 1, 2026. The excitement surrounding the project is palpable, not least from his proud grandfather, who recently shared a deeply emotional and personal review of the film on his blog.
A Grandfather's Heartfelt Journey: From Cradle to Screen
On a Tuesday morning, Amitabh Bachchan took to his blog to express a whirlwind of emotions after watching his grandson's debut performance. He reflected on the swift passage of time, marveling at how the infant he once held has grown into a man carving his own path in the film industry. Bachchan's words painted a vivid, sentimental picture, tracing Agastya's journey from birth to stardom.
"Emotions flow.. As do they tonight when you witness the grandson excel in IKKIS," he began. He recalled the momentous day of Agastya's birth, remembering his daughter Shweta Nanda being rushed to Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital. He spoke of holding the newborn just hours later, debating the colour of his eyes. Bachchan fondly remembered the toddler who would fiddle with his beard while sitting in his arms. This personal history made witnessing Agastya's cinematic debut an overwhelmingly proud moment, leaving Bachchan "unable to take my eyes off each time he fills the frames of the film."
Amitabh Bachchan's Verdict: Praise Beyond Family Ties
Moving beyond familial pride, Amitabh Bachchan offered a critique of Agastya Nanda's performance that he insisted was from the perspective of a seasoned cinema viewer. He was effusive in his praise for the young actor's work ethic and screen presence.
He highlighted "his maturity, his unfiltered honesty in his performance, his presence justifying the character he portrays." Bachchan emphasized that there was no unnecessary drama, just a truthful portrayal of the real-life hero Arun Khetarpal, the 21-year-old soldier who displayed exceptional bravery during the 1971 India-Pakistan war. "Nothing excessive, just the perfection in every shot.. when he is in the frame you only watch him," he wrote, adding the significant caveat, "and this is not a grandfather speaking, this is a hardened viewer of cinema."
About the Film 'Ikkis' and Its Cast
'Ikkis' is not just a launchpad for a star kid; it is a prestigious project headed by National Award-winning director Sriram Raghavan. The film is a biographical war drama centered on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, PVC, one of India's youngest recipients of the Param Vir Chakra, the nation's highest military honour.
The cast includes another debutante: Simar Bhatia, niece of actor Akshay Kumar. In a poignant addition, the late veteran actor Dharmendra will be seen in a posthumous appearance, making his final film role a part of this patriotic narrative. The film's release on New Year's Day 2026 positions it as a significant cinematic event, blending historical narrative with fresh talent.
Amitabh Bachchan concluded his review on a powerful note, declaring the film "flawless in its presentation.. its writing.. its Direction." He described being left with "eyes filled with tears of joy and pride.. unable to speak out." For the usually eloquent megastar, the experience was profound enough to be held in a personal "silence that belongs to me .. my understanding." His final word on the matter was simple yet loaded with meaning: "Love." This heartfelt endorsement from Indian cinema's most revered figure has undoubtedly set the stage for Agastya Nanda's grand arrival and raised audience expectations for 'Ikkis' to a new high.
