The cinematic swansong of legendary actor Dharmendra, titled 'Ikkis', has resonated deeply with audiences since its theatrical release on 1 January 2026. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, the film also marks the debut of Agastya Nanda and has been hailed on social media as a powerful and emotional departure from typical war biopics.
A Story of Valor and Sacrifice
The film is a war drama centered on the real-life story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, portrayed by Agastya Nanda. Khetarpal, who was killed at age 21 during the 1971 India-Pakistan war, remains the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military honor. The narrative weaves his battlefield courage with the profound personal cost of conflict. The ensemble cast also features acclaimed actors like Jaideep Ahlawat and Deepak Dobriyal.
Netizens Hail a Poignant Masterpiece
Initial reactions from viewers and critics have largely celebrated the film's nuanced approach. Many have emphasized that Ikkis avoids easy jingoism, choosing instead to focus on empathy, loss, and the quiet strength of soldiers and their families.
Film critic Rahul Desai described it as a "wistful hug of a film" and called director Sriram Raghavan a "national treasure." Social media users have been sharing their emotional responses, with one noting, "The film doesn’t just celebrate heroism—it also reflects on loss, grief, and the silent strength of families left behind."
Another viewer praised its subtlety, stating, "Ikkis doesn’t scream patriotism; it earns it. A war film that trusts silence over slogans, emotion over excess, and truth over theatrics." The performance of Dharmendra, in his final screen role, has been a major talking point, with fans moved by witnessing the "Dharmendra magic" one last time.
A Balanced Critical Reception
While the reception has been overwhelmingly positive, some critics offered a more measured perspective. Film critic Het Tanna found the film "average" and awarded it 2.5 stars. He felt the movie failed to fully evoke patriotic feelings and criticized the second half for moving at a slow pace. However, even in his review, he paid tribute to Dharmendra's enduring "charming screen presence."
The consensus highlights Ikkis as a significant film that successfully balances the spectacle of war with intimate human emotion. It is being recognized not just as a biopic, but as a contemplative piece on the enduring spirit and the true price of valor, marking a memorable farewell for a beloved superstar and a promising start for a new talent.
