Veteran actor Dharmendra’s recent death at the age of 89 has added a deeply poignant layer to his upcoming film Ikkis, now widely regarded as his last screen appearance. With his legacy firmly cemented, fans will soon get one final chance to see him deliver a performance that reflects his enduring power as an actor.
A tribute to a real-life war hero
Ikkis is a biographical war drama that tells the story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who was awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military decoration, after his heroic sacrifice during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Directed by Sriram Raghavan and produced by Maddock Films, the film blends emotional narrative and action-driven moments to honour Khetarpal’s bravery.
Dharmendra’s final role: a father’s grief
In Ikkis, Dharmendra plays the father of Arun Khetarpal, bringing emotional depth and gravitas to the character. The newly released poster features him uttering a moving line: “Yeh mera bada beta, Arun” (“This is my elder son, Arun”), suggesting a strong bond between father and son.
Release date and production update
The makers recently announced that Ikkis will be released in theatres on 25 December 2025. Filming has already wrapped, with the first-look poster featuring lead actor Agastya Nanda unveiled on 14 October 2025.
What it means for Dharmendra’s legacy
Given his recent passing, Ikkis is expected to resonate deeply with audiences. It is being seen not just as a war film but as a cinematic farewell from a legend. Dharmendra’s dignified portrayal of a grieving father provides a gentle but powerful reminder of his talent and sensitivity.
For the fans: why this matters
For admirers of Dharmendra, Ikkis offers an opportunity to witness his final performance on the big screen. As he shares the narrative with a new generation of actors like Agastya Nanda, the film promises to be a celebration of his courage — both as a cinema icon and as a symbol of resilience and honour.
