Ikkis Movie Review: Dharmendra’s Last Film, True Story, Cast, Plot & Ratings

The Legend We Lost and the Legacy He Left Behind

There are actors whose names instantly bring to mind entire eras of cinema, emotions and unforgettable moments. Dharmendra was one such legend — a towering presence in Indian cinema whose career spanned more than six decades and over 300 films. Known for his rugged charm, magnetic screen presence and the genuine warmth he brought to every character, Dharmendra became more than a superstar — he became an emotion for millions worldwide.

With the release of Ikkis, the world has witnessed something deeply moving, Dharmendra’s final on-screen performance, released posthumously after his passing in November 2025. In a way, Ikkis feels like a personal farewell from a man whose presence defined generations of Bollywood storytelling. Watching this film is not just about witnessing a story — it’s about honoring a legacy.

Ikkis Movie Cast

Ikkis features a talented ensemble that brings depth and emotional resonance to a powerful story inspired by real events.

Dharmendra as Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal — Father of Arun Khetarpal
Agastya Nanda as Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal — Youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee
Jaideep Ahlawat as Brigadier Khwaja Mohammed Naseer
Rahul Dev as Lieutenant Colonel Hanut Singh
Vivaan Shah as Captain Vijender Malhotra
Sikandar Kher as RIS Sagat Singh
Simar Bhatia
Ekavali Khanna as Maryam Nisar
Shree Bishnoi as Parag Singh
Aadyanshi Kapoor

This cast blends seasoned performers and fresh faces, crafting a rich tapestry of characters around a true story that deserves both respect and emotional depth.

Acting Performances: Depth, Grace, and Emotional Impact

Dharmendra

In what is now his final film, Dharmendra delivers a performance that sits quietly powerful and profoundly emotional. As Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal, he doesn’t shout, nor does he seek attention — instead, he imbues the role with a restrained dignity and heartfelt depth that only a master actor could deliver.

Watching him in Ikkis feels like watching memories come alive. His subtle expressions, emotional introspection and the way he carries every scene makes his presence feel timeless — a final gift to cinephiles everywhere.

Agastya Nanda

Agastya Nanda plays the central role of Arun Khetarpal, the young soldier whose courage defined a nation. His portrayal of Arun’s zeal, vulnerability and dedication brings sincerity to the film, reminding audiences why Arun’s real-life story continues to inspire millions.

Jaideep Ahlawat

Jaideep Ahlawat brings his usual intensity and nuance to every scene. As Brigadier Khwaja Mohammed Naseer, his performance pierces through stereotypes and offers emotional complexity — making his role memorable and deeply human.

Supporting Cast

Rahul Dev, Vivaan Shah, Sikandar Kher, Simar Bhatia and Ekavali Khanna contribute solid performances that enrich the film’s emotional and narrative depth. Their portrayals, while subtle, uphold the gravity of the story and help anchor the film’s heart.

Movie Plot: A True Story of Bravery, Sacrifice, and Legacy

Ikkis is a war biographical drama based on the real-life story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who was posthumously awarded India’s highest military honor, the Param Vir Chakra, for his extraordinary valor during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.

Set during the Battle of Basantar, the film delves into Arun’s journey — his courage against overwhelming odds, his commitment to his country, and the emotional bond with his father, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal (Dharmendra). The narrative masterfully balances moments of intense battlefield drama with quiet personal reflections of love, loss and legacy.

Unlike typical war films, Ikkis isn’t about spectacle — it’s about empathy, depth and connection. Each scene carries emotional weight, reminding us why stories like Arun’s are timeless pillars of inspiration.

Direction, Music, and Cinematic Tone

Directed by Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis takes a nuanced approach to war cinema — focusing on human emotions and moral complexity rather than just explosive battle sequences. Raghavan’s direction lets moments breathe, allowing the audience to absorb the emotional reverberations of every scene.

The music supports the film’s reflective nature, adding emotional resonance without ever overpowering the scenes. Coupled with effective cinematography, Ikkis creates a powerful yet graceful cinematic experience.

Ratings from Top Platforms

After its release on January 1, 2026, Ikkis has drawn attention both for its emotional story and Dharmendra’s final performance:

IMDb: 6.4/10
Times of India: 3.5/5
Hindustan Times: 3.5/5
Bollywood Hungama: 4/5

Across platforms, critics have praised the film’s heart, depth and performances — particularly highlighting the emotional weight brought by Dharmendra’s presence. Reviews note that while the film isn’t a high-octane war spectacle, its focus on human experience gives it strong emotional grounding.

Personal View: A Farewell That Tugs at the Heartstrings

As someone who lives and breathes cinema, Ikkis feels deeply personal — not just because it marks the final appearance of a Bollywood legend, but because it tells a story that resonates beyond the screen. Watching Dharmendra in one last meaningful role, especially knowing he passed before the film’s release, turns every scene into a moment of remembrance.

This film isn’t about fireworks and grandeur — it’s about human courage, the cost of sacrifice and the love between a father and son. And that makes Ikkis stand out in a landscape crowded with spectacle but often missing soul.

Final Verdict: A Worthy Tribute to a Legend and a Hero

Ikkis is more than a movie — it’s a cinematic tribute to courage, legacy and the art of storytelling. It offers a moving culmination to Dharmendra’s storied career and ensures that his presence will continue to inspire future generations.

For anyone who believes in cinema that touches the heart, honors truth and respects the lives it portrays — Ikkis deserves a place on your watchlist.

Dharmendra may have left us, but through Ikkis, his legacy remains — powerful, poetic and unforgettable.

For the Latest Movie Reviews, Please Visit Popnewsblend.com

Prashant

Hi, I’m Prashant Jain — a curious soul, storyteller, and content creator at heart.I’ve always been drawn to the world of entertainment, travel, sports, health & lifestyle — not just as a writer, but as someone who genuinely lives these experiences. Whether I’m binge-watching the latest OTT series, exploring offbeat spiritual destinations in India, or diving deep into wellness routines and cricket match insights, I love sharing what I discover with like-minded readers.
PopNewsBlend is my way of blending personal journeys with meaningful stories — ones that inform, inspire, and keep you ahead of the curve. Everything I write comes from real observations, hands-on experiences, and a deep passion for understanding the world around us.

Discover more from Popnewsblend

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Ikkis Movie Review: Dharmendra’s Final Film and a Gentle Goodbye to a Timeless Legend