A special screening of the film Ikkis took place in Mumbai on Monday, December 29, attracting numerous Bollywood celebrities such as Salman Khan and Sunny Deol. Casting director Mukesh Chhabra has now offered his candid opinion on the movie, commending its emotional richness and genuine narrative.
Mukesh Chhabra gives his opinion on Ikkis
Mukesh expressed his admiration for Ikkis on X (previously known as Twitter). He commented, 'I just watched Ikkis — a film crafted with genuine emotion. The storytelling is gentle and sincere, leaving a lasting impression. Dharmendra sir… such elegance, such profoundness. If this is your final film, it is truly heartbreaking. You have given us something profoundly emotional and significant. You will be missed, sir.'
He proceeded to commend Jaideep Ahlawat's performance, as well as Agastya and Simar, stating, "And Jaideep Ahlawat — hats off. I truly didn’t anticipate this, and I’m pleased to be taken by surprise. A warm welcome to Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia — both were captivating on screen. Charming eyes, delightful chemistry. Agastya’s innocence and sincerity genuinely stand out. Special recognition to Vivan Shah and Sikandar Kher — exceptional work. And above all — Sriram Raghavan. The man. The master. Once again, sir… once again. A heartfelt film, narrated with honesty. Cinema that feels personal. @MaddockFilms @JaideepAhlawat."
Regarding Ikkis
The biographical war drama depicts the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, PVC, played by Agastya Nanda. The movie narrates his sacrifice in the Battle of Basantar during the 1971 India–Pakistan War. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, the film also features Dharmendra as Brigadier ML Khetarpal (Retd.), Arun Khetarpal’s father; Jaideep Ahlawat as Brigadier Khwaja Mohammed Naseer, an officer in the Pakistan Army; and Rahul Dev as Lieutenant Colonel (later Lieutenant General) Hanut Singh, MVC, among others.
The movie represents Agastya Nanda's first appearance in theaters and introduces Simar Bhatia, Akshay Kumar's niece, to Bollywood. Initially planned for a December 25 release, it is now set to premiere in cinemas on January 1, 2026.