On the 75th birth anniversary of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, Maddock Films officially unveiled the first look and motion poster of Ikkis—a powerful war biopic that promises to immortalize the story of India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient. Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Sriram Raghavan and produced by Dinesh Vijan under the Maddock Films banner, this December 2025 release marks a significant departure from the studio’s comedy-horror successes into the realm of authentic military storytelling. Starring Agastya Nanda in his theatrical debut alongside veterans Dharmendra and Jaideep Ahlawat, Ikkis chronicles the untold story of extraordinary courage displayed by a 21-year-old officer during the 1971 Indo-Pak war’s Battle of Basantar.
Maddock Films’ Ambitious War Chronicle: From Stree to Strategic Military Drama
Maddock Films, widely recognized for revolutionizing Bollywood’s horror-comedy genre with blockbusters like Stree, Bhediya, and Munjya, ventures into uncharted territory with Ikkis. This strategic expansion demonstrates producer Dinesh Vijan’s commitment to diversifying the Maddock Films portfolio beyond its established supernatural universe into emotionally resonant, historically significant narratives.
The announcement came with the tagline “Woh Ikkis ka tha, Ikkis ka hi rahega” (He was 21, and will forever remain 21)—a poignant reference to Khetarpal’s eternal youth, immortalized through supreme sacrifice. The Maddock Films social media channels shared: “Dinesh Vijan and Maddock Films present #Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan, a true untold story of the youngest officer recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. In cinemas December 2025!”
| Maddock Films Production Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Production House | Maddock Films |
| Producer | Dinesh Vijan |
| Director | Sriram Raghavan |
| Lead Actor | Agastya Nanda (as Arun Khetarpal) |
| Supporting Cast | Dharmendra, Jaideep Ahlawat, Sikander Kher, Simar Bhatia |
| Release Date | December 2025 |
| Production Duration | 3 years (2022-2025) |
| Genre | War Biopic/Historical Drama |
This marks Maddock Films’ second collaboration with Sriram Raghavan, following their partnership on the critically acclaimed thriller Badlapur (2015). The reunion signals mutual trust and creative synergy between the filmmaker and the production house.
Sriram Raghavan’s Vision: Authentic Storytelling Over Superhero Mythology
Known for stylized noir thrillers like Andhadhun, Badlapur, and Johnny Gaddaar, Sriram Raghavan brings his signature realistic approach to Ikkis, steering away from Bollywood’s typical jingoistic war film conventions. Speaking to PTI, Raghavan emphasized his commitment to authenticity: “It’s not a comic-book hero version. It is a bigger production; there will be tank battles and all those things that happen in a war film. But it is also a human story; it’s a drama, a coming-of-age kind of a thing.”
This approach positions Ikkis as a nuanced character study rather than an action spectacle, focusing on the journey of a young soldier rather than mythologizing his exploits. Raghavan’s trademark gritty realism—evident in the newly released motion poster showcasing dusty battlefields, high-octane tank warfare, and moments of selfless valor—promises a visceral, emotionally authentic experience.
The director’s decision to center the narrative around events occurring 30 years after Khetarpal’s martyrdom suggests a non-linear storytelling approach that examines legacy, memory, and the enduring impact of heroism on those left behind.
Agastya Nanda’s Theatrical Debut: From The Archies to Army Barracks
Ikkis represents a make-or-break moment for Agastya Nanda, grandson of Amitabh Bachchan, following mixed reviews for his Netflix debut in Zoya Akhtar’s The Archies. The 24-year-old actor underwent intensive army training to embody Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, demonstrating the physical and emotional commitment required for this demanding role.
The first look posters released by Maddock Films showcase two distinct moods: one features Agastya in uniform, standing firm amidst chaos with gun in hand and determination etched on his face; the second plunges deeper into battlefield intensity, showing a soldier manning a machine gun aboard a tank with explosions and armored vehicles in the background.
Raghavan praised Agastya’s casting, noting that the actor was selected early in development for “embodying the required vulnerability and sincerity.” This combination of youthful earnestness and physical transformation positions Ikkis as Agastya’s opportunity to establish himself as a serious actor capable of carrying emotionally complex narratives.
Interestingly, Akshay Kumar publicly supported his niece Simar Bhatia’s Bollywood debut in Ikkis, tweeting: “Bless you my baby, the sky is yours”—highlighting the film’s multi-generational appeal and family connections.
The True Story: Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal’s Supreme Sacrifice
Born on October 14, 1950, Arun Khetarpal joined the Indian Army and became a tank commander in the 17th Poona Horse regiment. During the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War’s Battle of Basantar (fought between December 15-17, 1971 in the Shakargarh sector), Khetarpal displayed conspicuous courage that would earn him India’s highest military honor.
The Battle That Defined a Legacy
The Battle of Basantar was a crucial engagement where Indian forces halted a Pakistani armored thrust aimed at capturing strategic territory. Leading a squadron of tanks, the 21-year-old Khetarpal engaged enemy armor with extraordinary bravery. Despite being heavily outnumbered and facing enemy fire, he continued fighting until his tank was hit and he was fatally wounded.
His last radio transmission, refusing orders to abandon his position with the words “No Sir, I will not abandon my tank. My gun is still working and I will get these bastards,” has become legendary in Indian military history. Khetarpal was martyred on December 16, 1971—just months after turning 21.
| Arun Khetarpal: Military Profile | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal |
| Birth Date | October 14, 1950 |
| Regiment | 17th Poona Horse |
| Battle | Battle of Basantar (1971 Indo-Pak War) |
| Age at Martyrdom | 21 years |
| Date of Martyrdom | December 16, 1971 |
| Award | Param Vir Chakra (posthumous) |
| Distinction | Youngest officer recipient of Param Vir Chakra |
| Family Background | Father: Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal |
For his extraordinary gallantry, Khetarpal was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, making him one of the youngest recipients of India’s highest wartime decoration. His family background was steeped in military tradition—his father later rose to the rank of Brigadier, carrying forward the legacy of service.
Veteran Star Power: Dharmendra as Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal
In what promises to be one of the most emotionally charged performances of his storied career, Dharmendra portrays Arun Khetarpal’s father, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal. The casting adds gravitas and emotional depth to Ikkis, with the legendary actor bringing decades of experience to a role that explores a father’s grief, pride, and enduring connection to his martyred son.
Raghavan expressed enthusiasm about the Dharmendra-Agastya pairing, noting the potential for powerful intergenerational dynamics on screen. The emotional teaser released by Maddock Films opens with a letter written during the Battle of Basantar, informing Khetarpal’s father of his son’s death in action—immediately establishing the film’s emotional stakes.
Jaideep Ahlawat, known for powerful performances in Paatal Lok and Raazi, joins the cast in a pivotal role, though specific character details remain undisclosed. His inclusion signals Maddock Films’ commitment to casting actors capable of delivering nuanced, layered performances that serve the story’s emotional authenticity.
The Production Journey: Three Years in the Making
Ikkis officially wrapped filming on October 10, 2025, concluding a committed three-year production phase that began in 2022. Maddock Films marked the completion with a celebratory social media post: “IKKIS Filming is officially wrapped!! Three years of hard work, passion, & relentless dedication.”
From Varun Dhawan to Agastya Nanda: The Evolution of Ikkis
The project was first announced in 2019 with Varun Dhawan attached to star. Dhawan, who had previously worked with Raghavan in Badlapur, was the original choice to portray Arun Khetarpal. However, the pandemic’s onset caused production delays, creating scheduling conflicts with Dhawan’s other commitments, leading to his exit from the project.
Raghavan then pivoted to direct Merry Christmas (starring Vijay Sethupathi and Katrina Kaif) before returning to Ikkis with fresh perspective and new casting. Interestingly, Maddock Films head Dinesh Vijan had reportedly suggested the title for Merry Christmas, though he was not involved as producer on that project—a testament to the creative relationship between filmmaker and producer.
The three-year production timeline allowed for meticulous period recreation, extensive tank battle sequences, and thorough actor preparation. The scale of production—featuring large-scale war sequences with authentic military hardware and hundreds of extras—represents one of Maddock Films’ most ambitious undertakings to date.
Post-Production and Release Strategy: Navigating the December 2025 Window
With principal photography complete, Ikkis enters the crucial post-production phase involving editing, VFX work, sound design, and musical scoring. The film’s release strategy has evolved considerably since initial announcements.
Originally scheduled for October 2, 2025 (Gandhi Jayanti), the film would have directly clashed with Rishab Shetty’s highly anticipated Kantara Chapter 1. Maddock Films strategically postponed Ikkis to December 2025, avoiding the box office collision while positioning the film for year-end awards consideration and holiday season audiences.
The December release window offers several advantages:
- Awards season positioning for major Indian film ceremonies
- Extended holiday period with families seeking quality entertainment
- Less crowded release calendar compared to October’s festive rush
- Opportunity to build word-of-mouth momentum heading into 2026
The exact December date remains unannounced, though industry speculation suggests a mid-to-late December premiere that could capture both Christmas and New Year audiences.
Visual Language: Maddock Films’ War Aesthetic
The motion poster and first look materials released by Maddock Films establish a distinctly realistic visual palette for Ikkis. Unlike the heightened, stylized action of typical Bollywood war films, Raghavan’s approach emphasizes gritty authenticity—dusty battlefields, realistic tank warfare, harsh lighting, and visceral combat sequences.
The cinematography captures the chaos and confusion of mechanized warfare while maintaining focus on human faces and emotional reactions. One poster features Agastya in close-up, uniform details meticulously recreated, with battlefield smoke and embers rising in the background. The second offers wider battlefield scope, showcasing the scale of armored conflict while never losing sight of individual courage within overwhelming circumstances.
This visual strategy aligns with Maddock Films’ evolving aesthetic sensibility—moving from the stylized horror-comedy world-building of their supernatural universe into more grounded, historically authentic storytelling that respects both subject matter and audience intelligence.
Cultural Significance: Why Ikkis Matters for Maddock Films and Indian Cinema
Ikkis represents multiple significant shifts for Maddock Films, Indian cinema, and war film storytelling:
For Maddock Films: Demonstrates production house versatility beyond genre specialization, establishing credibility for serious, prestige projects alongside commercial entertainers.
For War Films: Prioritizes character-driven storytelling and emotional authenticity over jingoistic spectacle, potentially resetting audience expectations for military biopics.
For Historical Memory: Brings attention to a lesser-known war hero whose extraordinary sacrifice deserves wider recognition, particularly among younger generations unfamiliar with 1971 war history.
For New Talent: Provides Agastya Nanda with a substantial, challenging role that could define his career trajectory while introducing audiences to emerging talent in a prestigious context.
The film also continues Bollywood’s renewed interest in military history and valor-centric narratives, following successful films like Uri: The Surgical Strike, Shershaah, and Sam Bahadur. However, Raghavan’s emphasis on humanizing rather than mythologizing his subject positions Ikkis as a more mature, nuanced addition to this growing subgenre.
The Maddock Films Legacy: Building a Diverse Portfolio
Ikkis joins a remarkable slate of Maddock Films productions that demonstrates Dinesh Vijan’s evolving creative vision:
- Horror-Comedy Universe: Stree (2018), Roohi (2021), Bhediya (2022), Munjya (2024), Stree 2 (2024)
- Thrillers: Badlapur (2015), Cocktail (2012)
- Social Dramas: Hindi Medium (2017), Angrezi Medium (2020)
- War Biopics: Ikkis (2025)
This diversity suggests Maddock Films’ ambition to become a full-spectrum production house capable of delivering commercially successful genre films while pursuing prestige projects with award potential and cultural significance.
The studio’s willingness to invest three years and substantial resources into Ikkis—despite no guarantee of commercial success for serious war dramas—demonstrates commitment to storytelling that transcends box office calculations.
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FAQs
When will Maddock Films’ Ikkis release in theaters?
Maddock Films has confirmed that Ikkis will release in December 2025, though the exact date has not been officially announced. The film was originally scheduled for October 2, 2025 (Gandhi Jayanti) but was postponed to avoid clashing with Kantara Chapter 1. The December release positions the film for year-end audiences and awards consideration.
Who is Arun Khetarpal and why is Ikkis being made about him?
Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal was India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient, awarded posthumously for extraordinary bravery during the 1971 Indo-Pak War’s Battle of Basantar. Martyred at age 21 on December 16, 1971, Khetarpal displayed conspicuous courage leading his tank squadron against enemy armor. Maddock Films’ Ikkis tells his previously untold story to honor his sacrifice and inspire new generations.
Why did Varun Dhawan leave Ikkis and how did Agastya Nanda get cast?
Varun Dhawan was originally attached to Ikkis when it was announced in 2019 and had previously worked with director Sriram Raghavan on Badlapur. However, pandemic-related delays created scheduling conflicts with Dhawan’s other commitments, leading to his exit. Director Raghavan then selected Agastya Nanda for embodying the required vulnerability and sincerity after the actor underwent intensive army training for the role.
Is Ikkis Maddock Films’ first war movie?
Yes, Ikkis marks Maddock Films’ first venture into the war biopic genre. The production house is primarily known for its successful horror-comedy universe including Stree, Bhediya, and Munjya, along with social dramas like Hindi Medium. Ikkis represents a strategic expansion for producer Dinesh Vijan into historically significant, emotionally resonant military storytelling.
What approach is director Sriram Raghavan taking with Ikkis?
Sriram Raghavan emphasized that Ikkis will be authentic and realistic, steering clear of “comic-book hero” portrayals. While featuring large-scale tank battles and war sequences, the director described it as fundamentally “a human story; it’s a drama, a coming-of-age kind of thing.” The narrative reportedly focuses on events occurring 30 years after Khetarpal’s martyrdom, examining legacy and memory rather than simply depicting battle heroics.
