Ikkis Movie Review 2026: Agastya Nanda’s Powerful Debut in Sriram Raghavan’s Emotional Anti-War Biopic Resonates with NRIs
Mumbai – January 2, 2026 NRI Globe
Sriram Raghavan’s Ikkis, the poignant biopic on Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal – India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient from the 1971 Indo-Pak War – has touched hearts worldwide with its deeply human portrayal of courage, loss, and empathy. Released on January 1, 2026, the film marks a stellar big-screen debut for Agastya Nanda (grandson of Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan) and serves as the final, unforgettable performance of the legendary Dharmendra.
For Non-Resident Indians, Ikkis is more than a war drama – it’s a moving tribute to the sacrifices of Indian soldiers, evoking memories of family stories about the 1971 war and Partition. Early feedback from NRI communities in the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and the Middle East highlights packed overseas screenings, with many calling it a “must-watch for every Indian abroad” to reconnect with India’s military heritage.
Critics and audiences alike praise Raghavan for crafting a mature anti-war narrative that humanises soldiers on both sides, choosing empathy over jingoism. The film interweaves two timelines: young Arun’s heroic journey in the Battle of Basantar and, decades later, his father (Dharmendra) visiting Pakistan, where he meets the officer (a brilliant Jaideep Ahlawat) who faced his son on the battlefield.
Agastya Nanda delivers a sincere, breakout performance, capturing the innocence, resolve, and youthful fire of the 21-year-old hero. Dharmendra’s graceful, emotional portrayal adds profound depth, making this swan song deeply moving. Jaideep Ahlawat stands out with his nuanced dignity, while newcomers like Simar Bhatia bring warmth to the romance.
Reviews hail Ikkis as “one of the most sensitive war films in years,” with ratings averaging 3.5-4 stars. Bollywood Hungama calls it “a deeply human story,” while The Hindu notes its “evocative plea for peace in polarised times.” The realistic tank battles, emotional core, and message of shared humanity make it a refreshing counter to louder patriotic films.
Despite sharing screens with the ongoing blockbuster Dhurandhar, Ikkis opened to a respectable ₹7 crore nett in India on Day 1, with strong word-of-mouth driving growth, especially among family audiences and overseas Indians.
For NRIs proud of India’s cinematic evolution, Ikkis is a heartfelt reminder of valour, loss, and the bridges that humanity can build even across borders. A film that stays with you long after the credits roll.
Keywords: Ikkis movie review 2026, Ikkis Agastya Nanda debut, Arun Khetarpal biopic, Dharmendra last film, Sriram Raghavan Ikkis, Jaideep Ahlawat performance, 1971 war movie, Bollywood war films, Ikkis box office, anti-war Bollywood movie
NRI Globe – Connecting Non-Resident Indians with news, culture, and community worldwide.
