The upcoming war drama Ikkis has already been in the spotlight for marking the theatrical debut of Agastya Nanda, grandson of Amitabh Bachchan. However, the film has taken on a deeper emotional significance following the demise of veteran actor Dharmendra on November 24. In the wake of Dharmendra’s passing, tributes poured in from across the film industry. Joining those voices was Jaideep Ahlawat, who took to social media to share unseen photos from the sets of Ikkis, offering a glimpse of his camaraderie with the late actor.
Alongside the images, he penned a deeply personal note reflecting his experience working with Dharmendra. He wrote, “Kuch nahi hai aisa jo keh paaunga. Bas Itna ki Aapne jo pyar diya Mujhe unn thode se dino main. Main vo Umar Bhar yaad rakhunga Sir. Aap bahut yaad aayenge (There is nothing I can truly say. Just that the love you gave me in those few days—I will remember it for the rest of my life, Sir. You will be deeply missed).” He also added, “This World will Miss the one and only Jatt Yamla Pagla Deewana. RIP Dharam ji.”
Directed by National Award-winner Sriram Raghavan and produced by Maddock Films, Ikkis tells the real-life story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, who sacrificed his life at the age of 21 during the 1971 Battle of Basantar. The title, meaning “twenty-one,” reflects the age at which he was martyred.
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Dharmendra plays the emotional role of Brigadier M. L. Khetarpal, father of the young war hero, while Agastya essays the role of Arun Khetarpal. The film also features Sikander Kher in a key role along with Ahlawat and is slated for a theatrical release on December 25, 2025. The project will now serve as Dharmendra's posthumous release, adding a poignant layer to its anticipation.
The veteran actor, fondly known as the “He-Man of Bollywood,” passed away at the age of 89 at his Mumbai residence, just days before his 90th birthday. He had been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital last month due to age-related ailments and was discharged after a critical phase. His last rites were held privately at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Juhu, with Amitabh Bachchan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, and other industry figures paying their respects.
With Ikkis now standing as Dharmendra’s final cinematic chapter, the film carries not only historical weight, but also a personal legacy cherished by those who worked closely with him—Jaideep Ahlawat among them.
More Pages: Ikkis Box Office Collection
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