The first look of veteran actor Dharmendra from the upcoming war drama Ikkis has been unveiled, stirring deep emotion among cinephiles across the country. The poster, released by Maddock Films, showcases the late actor in one of the most poignant roles of his career — Brigadier M. L. Khetarpal, father of 21-year-old Param Vir Chakra recipient Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who was martyred during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.
The poster comes just months after Dharmendra’s passing, lending the film an unexpected layer of emotional weight as fans prepare to witness his final cinematic appearance.
A stirring portrayal of a father’s pride and grief
Dharmendra’s first look is a powerful visual narrative in itself. With a weathered face marked by silent resilience and eyes that reflect both immense pride and indescribable loss, the actor embodies Brigadier Khetarpal — a father who raised a national hero. The tagline, “Fathers raise sons. Legends raise nations,” intensifies the emotional tone of the film, promising a story built on courage, sacrifice and the unbreakable bond between a father and son.
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis stars Agastya Nanda as Arun Khetarpal. The film is slated for a Christmas release on December 25, 2025, and is already being discussed as one of the most anticipated biographical war dramas in recent years.
A cinematic tribute to real-life valour
The film traces the life and extraordinary heroism of Arun Khetarpal, who displayed exceptional bravery during the Battle of Basantar in the 1971 war. At just 21, he fought fearlessly to defend his country, eventually laying down his life in the line of duty. His sacrifice earned him the nation’s highest wartime gallantry award — the Param Vir Chakra.
Through Dharmendra’s portrayal of Brigadier Khetarpal, Ikkis aims to bring forth the personal and emotional dimensions of the soldier’s legacy — not just the heroism on the battlefield but the father who nurtured the qualities that shaped a legend.
A final farewell: Dharmendra’s last screen appearance
What makes the release of the poster particularly poignant is the context of Dharmendra’s passing. For decades, he remained a beloved figure in Indian cinema — celebrated for his warmth, sincerity and timeless screen presence. Ikkis now becomes a posthumous tribute, immortalising him in a role that requires both strength and restraint.
The poster feels like a final bow from an actor whose artistry transcended generations. His portrayal of a grieving yet proud father resonates even more deeply now, echoing the emotions of fans mourning his loss.
For many, the film will serve not just as a historical narrative of wartime bravery but as a chance to witness Dharmendra’s genius one last time — a cinematic farewell wrapped in grace, emotion and dignity.
A legacy carried forward
With its Christmas release approaching, Ikkis carries a dual responsibility: honouring a national hero and celebrating the life and career of one of Indian cinema’s most cherished legends. The story of Arun Khetarpal will stand tall as a testament to extraordinary courage, while Dharmendra’s presence will serve as a reminder that true legends never truly leave — they continue to live on through the stories they help tell.
As audiences await the film’s release, Ikkis promises to be more than a war drama. It is set to offer an immersive, emotional experience that blends patriotic pride, personal sacrifice and the profound power of cinema to preserve memory and meaning across generations.