Review: Ikkis – An Emotion-Led War Film!

There have been quite a few war films in recent times, and Ikkis, though a war film, stands out for its non-jingoistic approach and its focus on the emotional journeys of it’s characters. Ikkis is a biographical war film based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who went to the battlefield during the 1971 Indo-Pak war at the tender age of 21 and never returned. He remains the youngest Army officer to be awarded the Param Vir Chakra. Director Sriram Raghavan, known for his brilliant thrillers, presents a war film deeply rooted in emotion.

Ikkis opens with a birthday party sequence where young Army officer Arun Khetarpal (Agastya Nanda) turns 21 (ikkis) and is eager to head to the battlefield. The film serves as a stirring tribute to the fearless spirit of a young officer from the 17th Poona Horse Regiment, whose supreme sacrifice proved decisive during the 1971 India–Pakistan war. When the war erupts, he is selected to go to the frontlines, and despite being ordered to retreat, he relentlessly disobeys commands and attacks enemy tanks with unmatched courage. Tragically, he is martyred.

The narrative moves back and forth, recounting incidents from the perspectives of Pakistani Brigadier Nisar (Jaideep Ahlawat) and Brigadier Madan Lal Khetarpal (Dharmendra), who visits Pakistan, his former home before partition.

The story alternates between 1971 and 2001, gradually piecing together the life and legacy of Second Lieutenant Khetarpal through two contrasting memories,  those of his grieving yet dignified father, and a former Pakistani soldier who later becomes a cricket selector. This Pakistani recalls the 1971 war hero with deep admiration, asserting that the Indian officer’s bravery is worthy of inspiration even for Pakistanis. While the war sequences are effectively shot, the director places greater emphasis on the psychological and emotional depth of the characters.

Agastya Nanda (Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson) performs well and shows promise, though he still has a long way to go. Simar Bhatia (Akshay Kumar’s niece) looks appealing on screen and delivers a decent performance despite limited screen time. This is Dharmendra’s last film, and his presence elevates the narrative significantly. Jaideep Ahlawat displays a wide emotional range and is simply outstanding. Sikandar Kher, Vivian Shah, Rahul Dev, Ekavali Khanna, and others provide solid support.

Ikkis is an emotion-led war film and is definitely a one-time watch.

Rating: ***½