Sriram Raghavan, celebrated for his gripping neo-noir thrillers, takes a poignant detour into the terrain of human emotion and historical reconciliation with his 2026 release, 'Ikkis'. Released on 1 January 2026, this Hindi drama and action film has garnered a 3.5 critic's rating, matching its audience score, for its heartfelt portrayal of a father's journey and an enemy's confession.
A Story Rooted in True Valour and Pain
The narrative of Ikkis is anchored in a powerful true story from the 1971 India-Pakistan war. The film follows an 80-year-old Brigadier M. L. Khetarpal, portrayed by the legendary Dharmendra, who travels to Pakistan in 2001. His mission is to visit the battlefield where his son, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, played by Agastya Nanda, was martyred at the tender age of 21. Arun was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India's highest military honour.
In Pakistan, the ageing brigadier is received with unexpected warmth by retired Brigadier Khwaja Mohammad Naser, a compelling performance by Jaideep Ahlawat. This former adversary carries a devastating burden of truth—he is the soldier who, during the heat of battle, killed Arun. The film masterfully constructs its emotional core around this heart-wrenching confrontation, staged far from the battlefield, where patriotism's roar is quieted by the profound courage to forgive.
Performances That Breathe Life into Grief and Guilt
The soul of Ikkis lies in the sublime interplay between its two lead actors. Dharmendra delivers a career-defining performance, showcasing a depth and range that reminds audiences of his underutilised prowess. His portrayal of a father grappling with decades of grief is both powerful and subtle, culminating in moving scenes that leave viewers teary-eyed.
Jaideep Ahlawat matches him note for note, embodying the guilt and respect of a soldier bound by duty to an enemy he admires. The film largely functions as a gripping two-hander, held together by these formidable performances even when the pacing feels uneven. Agastya Nanda, in the titular role of the young martyr, brings a no-nonsense sincerity and quiet charm to the part, proving to be a refreshing and promising presence.
Raghavan's Signature in Unfamiliar Territory
Director Sriram Raghavan successfully navigates this shift from crime thrillers to a humane war drama. He avoids glorifying combat, instead striving for a stark realism that doesn't rely heavily on CGI or dramatic sound design—a choice that largely benefits the film's authentic feel. However, the movie's music score has been noted as underwhelming, failing to elevate key narrative moments.
Raghavan's trademark, unpredictable humour surfaces in unexpected places, providing a delightful edge. The supporting cast, including Sikander Kher in a brief but significant role, Deepak Dobriyal, Rahul Dev, and debutante Simar Bhatia, all contribute confidently, adding layers to the narrative.
Verdict: A Tribute to Bravery and Humanity
Ikkis ultimately works as a warm, heartfelt tribute. It honours not only the nation's bravehearts but also serves as a quiet acknowledgement of Dharmendra's stellar legacy. The film's greatest achievement is its central theme: the quiet, mutual respect shared by soldiers on opposing sides, who understand the true, heartbreaking cost of war. It is a moving drama that puts humanity and forgiveness first, making it a notable entry in the genre of war films.
