New Delhi: Akshay Kumar’s niece, Simar Bhatia, is gearing up for her Bollywood debut with Ikkis, a war drama directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sriram Raghavan. Even before the film’s theatrical release, Simar has found herself in the spotlight after a light-hearted and witty exchange with filmmaker Karan Johar on social media, which has quickly gone viral and earned widespread appreciation.
Ikkis also stars Agastya Nanda, grandson of Amitabh Bachchan, in a lead role and is based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, one of the youngest recipients of the Param Vir Chakra for his heroism during the 1971 India-Pakistan War. With a strong subject, a respected director, and a promising young cast, the film is already generating considerable buzz.
Trailer launch draws industry praise
Ahead of the film’s release, the makers unveiled the final trailer of Ikkis on Friday. The trailer received an enthusiastic response online, with fans and members of the film industry praising its emotional depth, war sequences, and performances.
Among those who reacted was Karan Johar, who shared the trailer on his Instagram Stories. Extending support to the new generation of actors, Johar praised Agastya Nanda, writing, “SOLID!!!!!! Rooting for you Aggy!!!!” He also welcomed Simar Bhatia to the film industry, adding, “Welcome to the movies @simarbhatia18… you’re gorgeous!!!”
Simar Bhatia’s cheeky response goes viral
While Johar’s message itself drew attention, it was Simar Bhatia’s reply that truly captured the internet’s imagination. Thanking the filmmaker for his encouragement, she added a humorous and confident line in Hindi: “Thank you sir. Phir mujhe Dharma ka picture kyun nahin diya?” (Then why didn’t you give me a Dharma film?)
The remark was widely shared and praised by fans, who lauded Simar for her confidence, sense of humour, and ease with industry heavyweights despite being a debutant. Many social media users described the exchange as refreshing and indicative of her strong personality.
Karan Johar responds sportingly
Karan Johar took Simar’s comment in good spirit and re-shared her reply on his Instagram, writing, “Hahaha…. this is the best launch for you my darling. It looks so good. Excited to watch it and of course see your debut performance.”
Simar once again responded graciously, clarifying that her comment was made in jest. “All just for laughs sir, really appreciate your post. I do really feel this is the best thing that happened to me,” she wrote, further endearing herself to audiences online.
Akshay Kumar’s emotional message for his niece
Earlier this month, Akshay Kumar penned an emotional note for his niece as she prepared to step into Bollywood. The actor recalled watching Simar grow up and expressed pride in her journey.
“Holding you as a tiny baby to now watching you step into the world of films… life really has come full circle,” Akshay wrote. He spoke about her transformation from a shy child into a confident young woman ready to face the camera and wished her strength for the challenging journey ahead.
He added, “Safar mushkil hai, but knowing you, you’ll walk into it with that same spark, that same honesty, and that same stubborn determination that runs in our family. Hum Bhatias ka funda simple hai: kaam karo, dil se karo, aur phir universe ka magic dekho.” The message concluded with a heartfelt note of pride and encouragement.
About Ikkis and its release plans
Apart from Simar Bhatia and Agastya Nanda, Ikkis also features veteran actor Dharmendra, marking his final appearance on screen, adding further emotional weight to the project. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, known for his distinctive storytelling style, the film is expected to blend realism, emotion, and intensity.
Originally slated for a Christmas release that would have seen it clash with Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri, starring Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday, Ikkis has now been rescheduled. The film is set to release in theatres on January 1, 2026, giving it a fresh opening at the start of the new year.
Conclusion
With her debut film generating positive buzz and her witty social media exchange winning hearts, Simar Bhatia has made a confident and memorable entry into the public eye even before her first release. As Ikkis prepares to hit cinemas, expectations are high for the young actor, who seems ready to carve her own identity in Bollywood while carrying a famous surname with grace and humour.