'Ikkis': Agastya Nanda as Second Lt. Arun Khetarpal, Dharmendra as Brigadier ML Khetarpal- The reel vs real characters of Sriram Raghavan's war drama

Filmmaker Sriram Raghavan’s Ikkis is a war-drama that has been waiting to happen for over half a decade. This is a film based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, PVC, a fierce role that was earlier being played by Varun Dhawan. But it seems it was newbie Agastya Nanda who was destined to essay this soldier.

Meet the reel characters of Ikkis who essay real-life characters:

Dharmendra: The late actor plays the role of Brigadier ML Khetarpal (Retd.), Arun Khetarpal’s father. This shall be the superstar’s last and posthumous release.  

Jaideep Ahlawat: Ahlawat has been given the role of Brigadier Khwaja Mohammed Naseer, Pakistan Army Officer.  

Rahul Dev as Lieutenant Colonel (Later Lieutenant General) Hanut Singh, MVC, commanding officer of Second Lt. Arun Khetarpal.

And veteran actress Suhasini Mulay will be playing the role of Nanda’s mother.

This is a story of courage, conviction, and the fire of youth — the kind that changes the course of history and reminds us what true bravery looks like. Through Arun’s journey,  Ikkis  explores questions of morality, mortality, patriotism, and the power of young blood that rises when the nation calls.

As  Agastya Nanda  steps into the role of a 21-year-old who became immortal, Ikkis marks the return of Sriram Raghavan to the big screen with a moving tribute to a real hero. Continuing Maddock Films’ tradition of bringing the most powerful stories to life, this film is not just a war drama. It is a mirror to the spirit of youth.

The genius called  Sriram Raghavan

Sriram Raghavan’s stories are twisted and treated with utmost care and deliciousness. The other word that could be used is juicy. And yes, the characters are complex and charming, and the climax dazzles and is always debatable. His last film Merry Christmas was designed and described as a love story wrapped inside a whodunnit, where two lonely people met and formed a bond that unravels a lot of secrets and motivations.

The trailer of his new film packs a punch as fan says- “Just imagine the temperament of a 21 year old boy who was hit by shells in his face before he destroyed 3 tanks, then cleaned his wounded face blood dripping through his eyes then he destroyed 2 more tanks. Then died because his tank was also hit by enemy tanks. Ultimate courage and sacrifice for country 🇮🇳. Paramveer chakra."