The upcoming biographical war drama Ikkis has received its most profound and emotional validation yet. The film, which depicts the life of the youngest recipient of India's highest military honour, the Param Vir Chakra, Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, moved his own brother, Mukesh Khetarpal, to tears during a private screening.
A Brother's Emotional Reaction
The poignant moment occurred when Mukesh Khetarpal watched the film ahead of its anticipated release in January 2026. Overwhelmed by the portrayal of his late brother's heroism and sacrifice, he was unable to hold back his emotions. Mukesh expressed that the film's accuracy and emotional depth made him relive decades of memories, transporting him back to the life and legacy of Arun.
He specifically praised the performance of debutant Agastya Nanda, who plays the titular role of the young war hero. In his conversation with the film's director, Sriram Raghavan, Mukesh Khetarpal conveyed how powerfully the narrative resonated with him, confirming that the cinematic tribute was rooted in authentic sentiment and historical truth rather than mere cinematic spectacle.
Seal of Authenticity for the Film
This heartfelt endorsement from the Khetarpal family serves as the ultimate seal of approval for the filmmaking team. The viral moment, which spread quickly online, has cemented Ikkis's reputation as a respectful and genuine homage. It underscores the filmmakers' commitment to portraying the story of a national hero with the dignity and factual integrity it deserves.
The incident has generated significant positive buzz for the film, which is already one of the most awaited releases of the coming year. It highlights the powerful connection the film has established with the very people it seeks to honour, adding a layer of profound credibility to its promotional journey.
Broader Context and Anticipation
The screening and reaction took place on December 31, 2025. This event follows other notable moments in the film's pre-release phase, such as veteran actress Rekha honouring Amitabh Bachchan's legacy at the film's premiere. The positive verdict from casting director Mukesh Chhabra had also previously sparked excitement.
With this deeply personal and emotional validation from the hero's family, Ikkis positions itself not just as a commercial Bollywood venture, but as a solemn and accurate tribute to a legendary figure in Indian military history. The anticipation for its release is now intertwined with the respect it has earned from those who knew Arun Khetarpal best.
