Ikkis’ Trailer: Honouring a True Indian Hero
Filmmaker Sriram Raghavan is set to bring one of India’s most powerful real-life stories to the screen with Ikkis – The Untold True Story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. The film pays tribute to the youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee, whose bravery during the 1971 Indo-Pak war remains an inspiration for generations.
The trailer, released by Maddock Films, opens with stirring visuals of Arun Khetarpal’s journey from an energetic cadet to a fearless tank commander. Agastya Nanda, making his big-screen debut, portrays the young soldier with a mix of innocence and determination, capturing both his youthful dreams and his unwavering courage in battle.
The film also stars Dharmendra as Arun’s father, Lt. Col. M.L. Khetarpal, and Jaideep Ahlawat in a key role. Told through the father’s eyes, the story explores what drove Arun to defy orders and fight till his last breath.
Arun Khetarpal’s heroism shone during the Battle of Basantar, where he destroyed ten enemy tanks before succumbing to his injuries — refusing to retreat even as his own tank burned.
With Raghavan’s direction and a heartfelt performance by Agastya Nanda, Ikkis promises to be an emotional, patriotic drama celebrating courage, sacrifice, and the spirit of a true Indian hero. The film hits theatres in December 2025.
