A poignant and star-studded evening unfolded in Mumbai recently for a special screening of the upcoming film 'Ikkis'. The event was charged with emotion as it marked the final cinematic appearance of the legendary actor Dharmendra. The screening also served as the grand debut platform for Agastya Nanda, grandson of Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan.
Bollywood Pays Heartfelt Tribute to a Legend
The who's who of the Indian film industry gathered not only to watch the film but to honor Dharmendra's enduring legacy. Among the attendees were prominent figures like Salman Khan, Rekha, Jeetendra, Tabu, Randeep Hooda, and Fatima Sana Shaikh. Fashion designer Manish Malhotra was also present, adding to the glamour of the evening.
A particularly moving moment was captured when actor Riteish Deshmukh and his wife, actress Genelia Deshmukh, posed for a photograph. They stood on either side of Dharmendra's picture on the official 'Ikkis' poster. Their silent, respectful pose eloquently conveyed the deep love and remembrance the industry holds for the veteran star.
First Reactions Praise a Film 'Made from the Heart'
Casting director Mukesh Chhabra shared one of the first reviews of 'Ikkis' after the screening. He described it as "a film made purely from the heart" with "gentle, honest storytelling that stays with you long after it ends."
Chhabra reserved special praise for Dharmendra, expressing, "Dharmendra sir… what grace, what depth. If this is your last film it truly breaks the heart. You’ve left us with something deeply emotional and important." He also commended actor Jaideep Ahlawat for a performance that surprised him.
The review warmly welcomed the newcomers, noting that Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia were "beautiful on screen" with "endearing eyes and lovely chemistry." Chhabra highlighted Agastya's "innocence and sincerity," which he said truly shines through. He also gave a special mention to actors Vivan Shah and Sikandar Kher for their outstanding work, and above all, to director Sriram Raghavan, whom he called "The man. The master."
About the Film 'Ikkis' and Its Release
'Ikkis' is directed by Sriram Raghavan, with the script written by Arijit Biswas, Pooja Ladha Surti, and Raghavan himself. The film features a cast including Agastya Nanda, Dharmendra, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Shree Bishnoi, among others.
The film's release strategy has seen a shift. Originally scheduled for December 25, 2025, its release was postponed to January 1, 2026. Trade analyst Taran Adarsh supported this decision, citing the strong box office performance of another major film, 'Dhurandhar', and the extensive release of Hollywood's 'Avatar' in mid-December as key reasons. Adarsh noted that similar postponements for films like 'Hindi Medium' and 'Chhaava' had ultimately worked to their advantage by providing a clearer run at the box office.
The industry now awaits the public release of 'Ikkis', which is expected to have a decent opening, offering audiences a final chance to witness the iconic Dharmendra on the big screen and to welcome the newest star from the Bachchan family, Agastya Nanda.
