Abhishek Bachchan ‘Can’t Wait’ For Agastya Nanda’s War Film ‘Ikkis’

May 25, 2025: Agastya Nanda, grandson of Bollywood megastar Amitabh Bachchan, is all set to return to the big screen with his second film, Ikkis. The highly anticipated war drama, directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, is slated for a theatrical release on October 2, 2025, coinciding with Gandhi Jayanti.

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Backed by Maddock Films and produced by Dinesh Vijan, Ikkis tells the powerful true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of India’s highest wartime gallantry award, the Param Vir Chakra, awarded posthumously for his heroism in the 1971 Indo-Pak war.

The teaser, which dropped Saturday evening, begins with a somber letter written to Arun Khetarpal’s father announcing his son’s martyrdom on December 16, 1971, during the Battle of Basantar. The teaser then transitions into haunting silhouettes of war and glimpses of a fearless soldier on the battlefield—setting the tone for a film that promises both emotional depth and historical relevance.

Agastya Nanda, who made his debut in The Archies, is playing the titular role of Arun Khetarpal. Joining him are screen legends Dharmendra and Jaideep Ahlawat, adding gravitas to the ensemble.

Agastya’s uncle Abhishek Bachchan took to social media to show his support, sharing the teaser and writing, “All the best @agastya.nanda, can’t wait.” Meanwhile, Suhana Khan, rumoured to be dating Agastya, also reshared the teaser on her Instagram story with heart emojis, signaling excitement for the project.

Director Sriram Raghavan, known for his sharp storytelling in Andhadhun and Badlapur, emphasized that Ikkis will steer clear of exaggeration. “It’s not a comic-book hero version,” he told PTI, adding that the narrative will focus on Khetarpal’s military service rather than his early life. “It’s about a real boy who did something extraordinary just after turning 21.”

Trade analyst Taran Adarsh confirmed the release date and cast, tweeting, “2 Oct 2025 is the release date of #Ikkis… a war-drama based on the life of Second Lieutenant #ArunKhetarpal #PVC.”

With Ikkis, Agastya Nanda aims to establish himself as a serious actor with a project rooted in Indian history and patriotism. This marks another high-profile collaboration between Raghavan and Maddock Films post Badlapur.

In an era where Bollywood is embracing real-life stories with authenticity, Ikkis stands out as a promising, grounded tribute to youthful valour and national pride.