Bollywood is gearing up for an emotionally charged Christmas as Sriram Raghavan’s highly anticipated war biopic Ikkis is set to release in cinemas worldwide on December 25, 2025. Produced by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films, the film brings together an exceptional cast—Dharmendra, Agastya Nanda, Jaideep Ahlawat, and Simar Bhatia—in what promises to be a stirring tale of bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism.
Ikkis is inspired by the real-life heroism of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who displayed extraordinary courage during the 1971 Indo-Pak War. At just 21 years old, Khetarpal single-handedly destroyed several enemy tanks and became the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honour. The film’s title, Ikkis—meaning “21” in Hindi—symbolizes both his age and his indomitable spirit.
The gritty poster and teaser, unveiled by Maddock Films, set the tone for an intense cinematic experience—showing battle tanks, smoke-filled war zones, and a young soldier’s unflinching resolve. Director Sriram Raghavan, who previously collaborated with producer Dinesh Vijan on Badlapur, steps into new territory with this war drama while retaining his trademark depth and realism.
Veteran actor Dharmendra brings gravitas to the project, while Agastya Nanda, portraying Arun Khetarpal, marks a significant step in his rising career. Jaideep Ahlawat, known for his commanding performances, joins the cast in a pivotal role, adding further weight to the ensemble. Early industry buzz suggests that Ikkis will be one of 2025’s most powerful cinematic tributes to real-life heroism.
With Ikkis, Sriram Raghavan and Dinesh Vijan promise not just a war film, but a deeply human story about courage under fire, love for the nation, and the cost of valor. As the film readies for its Christmas 2025 release, audiences await what could be one of the most compelling and heartfelt war dramas in modern Hindi cinema.