The upcoming war biopic 'Ikkis' has been cast under a shadow of profound loss, transforming it into a poignant cinematic farewell for the legendary actor Dharmendra. The veteran star, who passed away on November 24 in Mumbai, never had the opportunity to witness his final performance on the big screen or experience the audience's appreciation for his work.
A Director's Unfulfilled Promise
In an emotional recollection, the film's director, Sriram Raghavan, shared his deep regret with ANI. He revealed that he last met Dharmendra in October during the final dubbing sessions. While the actor was unwell at the time, he managed to watch the first half of 'Ikkis' and eagerly awaited the second. Raghavan's heartfelt wish was for the veteran to see the complete film, a promise that, sadly, remained unfulfilled.
"I wanted him to see the film in its entirety. Somehow, that couldn't happen," Raghavan stated. "He is not here to enjoy the work he had done, and people appreciate that. That is a regret we have." This absence, the director implied, will add a significant emotional weight to the film's release, turning it into a tribute.
The Old-School Preparations of a Legend
Raghavan also offered a glimpse into Dharmendra's dedicated and traditional approach to his craft. The actor, true to his 'old school' methods, would meticulously prepare for his roles. He wrote all his dialogues in Urdu script, a practice that showcased his deep connection to the language and his commitment to authenticity. Furthermore, his preparation was so thorough that he would often write out the core dialogues for his fellow actors as well, demonstrating his collaborative spirit and extreme readiness.
A Family's Heartbreaking Moment
The film's producer, Dinesh Vijan, provided a touching insight into the Deol family's current emotional state. He mentioned that Dharmendra's family has not yet watched 'Ikkis', anticipating the overwhelming wave of grief it will likely bring.
"I think they'll only cry," Vijan told ANI. He described witnessing the family's love as both heartbreaking and beautiful, adding, "I just wish our kids could love us as much as they love him." This sentiment underscores the deep personal loss that transcends the professional realm.
'Ikkis', which marks Dharmendra's posthumous screen appearance, is scheduled for release on January 1, 2026. Directed by Sriram Raghavan and produced by Dinesh Vijan, the film is a war biopic based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, PVC, the youngest recipient of India's highest military honour, the Param Vir Chakra. Agastya Nanda plays the lead role of the brave officer.
