The upcoming war drama 'Ikkis' holds immense significance for Bollywood, weaving together a poignant tapestry of legacy, debut, and farewell. The film brings real-life heroes to the silver screen, marks the much-anticipated Bollywood debut of Amitabh Bachchan's grandson, Agastya Nanda, and, most emotionally, features the final on-screen performance of the legendary Dharmendra, who passed away in November 2025.
A Night of Emotions at the Special Screening
On Monday evening, a special screening of 'Ikkis' became a gathering of emotions, attended by the industry's biggest names. The event was particularly moving for Dharmendra's family, with his sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol present and visibly affected. However, it was superstar Salman Khan, who shared a father-like bond with the late veteran, who captured the collective sentiment of the evening.
Arriving amid tight security, Salman Khan paused before a poster of Dharmendra. Without uttering a word, his expressions conveyed a deep sense of loss and remembrance, a moment that resonated powerfully with fans and attendees alike. Netizens and fan pages quickly shared the video, with one caption noting, "Salman Khan seems to miss Dharam ji during Ikkis special screening." His presence was widely hailed as a heartfelt tribute to his idol.
The Profound Bond Between Salman and Dharmendra
Dharmendra's demise in 2025 had sent shockwaves across the nation. Salman Khan, for whom Dharmendra was a guiding figure, was among the first to pay his respects during the last rites. The actor had previously poured out his heart while honoring Dharmendra on the 'Bigg Boss 19' finale.
With visible grief, Salman had said, "We lost the He-Man. We lost the most amazing man... The career graph I have only followed Dharmji. He came with an innocent face and a He-Man’s body. That charm stayed with him till the end. Love you, Dharmji. Will always miss you." This background made his silent, emotional moment at the 'Ikkis' screening all the more poignant, showcasing a bond that transcended the professional realm.
Why 'Ikkis' is a Landmark Film
Beyond the emotional farewell, 'Ikkis' is poised to be a cinematic milestone for several key reasons:
- Real Stories: The film is based on the lives of genuine war heroes, bringing their valor to a mainstream audience.
- A New Legacy Begins: It introduces Agastya Nanda, the latest scion of the Bachchan family, to the world of Hindi cinema.
- A Final Bow: It serves as the last cinematic performance of the beloved Dharmendra, allowing audiences to see the veteran actor one final time.
The screening successfully blended celebration for a new beginning with solemn remembrance for an enduring legend, setting the stage for the film's release as a major event in Indian cinema.
