A special screening of the upcoming war drama Ikkis in Mumbai became an emotional tribute to the late veteran actor Dharmendra, with industry figures remembering his grace and impact on cinema. Among those moved by the film were director Anil Sharma and casting director Mukesh Chhabra, both of whom spoke candidly about their reactions after watching the film ahead of its January 1, 2026 theatrical release.
Ikkis stars Agastya Nanda as Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee, and features Dharmendra in the poignant final screen role of his six-decade career. The film, directed by Sriram Raghavan, has already drawn widespread attention for its emotional depth and heartfelt storytelling.
After screening the film, renowned casting director Mukesh Chhabra shared a heartfelt note on social media responding to Dharmendra’s performance. “Just watched Ikkis — a film made purely from the heart. Gentle, honest storytelling that stays with you long after it ends. Dharmendra sir… what grace, what depth. If this is your last film, it truly breaks the heart,” he wrote. “You’ve left us with something deeply emotional and important. You will be missed, sir.” Chhabra also praised performances from Jaideep Ahlawat, Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia, celebrating the cast’s contribution to the film.
Just watched Ikkis — a film made purely from the heart. Gentle, honest storytelling that stays with you long after it ends.
Dharmendra sir… what grace, what depth. If this is your last film, it truly breaks the heart 💔. You’ve left us with something deeply emotional and…— Mukesh Chhabra CSA (@CastingChhabra) December 29, 2025
Director Anil Sharma, best known for his work on films like Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, also expressed his emotional response to Dharmendra’s performance. “Saw Dharam ji’s last film yesterday… deeply touched. Watched him with teary eyes …what a role, what a performer. He leaves us with dignity, depth, and unforgettable grace,” Sharma said, extending congratulations to the Ikkis team and singling out Agastya Nanda’s performance.
Saw Dharam ji’s last film yesterday… deeply touched.
Watched him with teary eyes …
what a role, what a performer.
He leaves us with dignity, depth, and unforgettable grace.Heartfelt congratulations to the entire #IKEES team….
the makers, technicians, and every actor who… pic.twitter.com/HHRvtIKPo7— Anil Sharma (@Anilsharma_dir) December 30, 2025
Ikkis is based on the true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who was awarded the Param Vir Chakra posthumously for his courage during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War. The film is set to hit theatres on January 1, 2026.
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