Ekavali Khanna Addresses 'Ikkis' Controversy, Calls Allegations of Pakistan Praise 'Absurd'
Actress Ekavali Khanna has firmly responded to the growing criticism surrounding the film 'Ikkis', stating that accusations labeling it as pro-Pakistani are completely absurd. In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, Khanna emphasized that the film's core message revolves around humanity, grief, and the devastating aftermath of war, rather than any political agenda.
Film Focuses on Emotional Depth, Not Politics
Khanna, who portrays the character Maryam in the movie, explained that the outrage largely ignores the true essence of the story. "It's a very personal thing. So, I don't think that I hold that place to criticize people who are uncomfortable with it. But I can speak for myself," she remarked. The actress highlighted that 'Ikkis' is fundamentally an anti-war film that delves into themes often overshadowed by contemporary animosities.
"These days, we are so lost in this whole jargon of animosity, enemy camp etc. This particular film reflects a lot beyond it," Khanna noted. She elaborated that the narrative operates on multiple emotional levels, portraying a moving father-son relationship and offering perspectives from both sides of the conflict.
Khanna Clarifies: 'Ikkis' is Pro-Humanity, Not Pro-Pakistani
Addressing the specific label attached to the film, Khanna pushed back strongly, asserting, "This is a pro-humanity film. It is definitely not a pro-Pakistani film at any level." She referenced the sacrifice of Arun Khetarpal, a central figure in the story, to underscore her point. "Then how, on earth, can it be called a pro-Pakistani film?" she questioned, reinforcing that the film's intent is to honor human experiences and losses rather than take political sides.
Following the film's release in January 2026, which sparked intense reactions, Khanna expressed her full support for its emotional focus and artistic vision. She believes the controversy detracts from the film's ability to shed light on important historical narratives and personal tragedies.
Comparison with 'Dhurandhar' and Creative Choices
The criticism intensified after the release of 'Dhurandhar', another film that premiered weeks earlier and was praised for its hardline stance. Khanna addressed comparisons between the two projects, describing them as unfair. She recalled an encounter at an airport where someone asked which film she would prefer to work on.
"I replied that I have already worked in 'Ikkis'," she said, while acknowledging the success of 'Dhurandhar' and its director Aditya Dhar. "He tells convincing stories one after another. As an actor, of course, I'd love to work with him." However, Khanna made her creative preference clear, stating, "But creatively and in terms of sensitivity, I'll always choose 'Ikkis' over 'Dhurandhar'."
She suggested that such questions often seek sensational headlines, but for her, the priority remains the film's impact. "What makes me happy is that thanks to this film, more people are going to know the story of Arun Khetarpal," Khanna concluded, emphasizing the educational and emotional value of 'Ikkis' beyond the political noise.
