Dharmendra's character poster for his swan song ‘Ikkis’ released

Maddock Films has released a new character poster of Dharmendra from Ikkis on Monday, November 24, giving fans a glimpse of the late actor’s final performance. The poster presents him as Brigadier Arun Khetarpal, a role described by the makers as that of a “timeless legend."

The film, directed by Sriram Raghavan, is set to hit theatres on December 25, 2025. The production house shared the poster on its official X handle along with a tribute-laden caption that read, “Fathers raise sons. Legends raise nations," highlighting Dharmendra’s portrayal of a father whose son becomes an immortal war hero.

Fathers

raise sons. Legends raise nations.

Dharmendra ji, an emotional powerhouse as the father of a 21-year-old immortal soldier.

One timeless legend brings us the story of another.#IkkisTrailerOutNow
???? - https://t.co/qQQoOCgvCN

Ikkis in cinemas worldwide on 25th December… pic.twitter.com/x69xONxArx

— Maddockfilms (@MaddockFilms) November 24, 2025

Ikkis tells the true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. As per the film’s narrative, Agastya Nanda plays Arun Khetarpal, who was martyred at age 21 during the 1971 Battle of Basantar. Dharmendra’s character brings emotional depth to the story, portraying a father whose pride and pain define the film’s core spirit.

Dharmendra died on November 24 at the age of 89.

He was battling ill health and had been admitted to Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital for weeks before being discharged on November 12. He was undergoing treatment at home.

The industry mourned his loss, with several actors and filmmakers paying tribute to the veteran star. As reported by News18, his co-star Suhasini Mulay remembered him as warm, respectful and full of humour, saying he never let anyone feel uncomfortable on set.

The makers also shared another poster confirming the Christmas release. They described Dharmendra as an “emotional powerhouse” in the film, which focuses on bravery, sacrifice and patriotism.

A father’s worst nightmare became a nation’s chance to dream again.

“Woh joh na sirf Hindustani, balki Pakistani fauj ke liye bhi misaal ban gaya”#IkkisTrailerOutNow
???? - https://t.co/qQQoOCgvCN

Ikkis in cinemas worldwide on 25th December 2025. pic.twitter.com/jUu5k3X1fg

— Maddockfilms (@MaddockFilms) November 24, 2025

The movie also stars Jaideep Ahlawat and Sikander Kher. Directed by Sriram Raghavan and produced by Maddock Films, Ikkis aims to tell the inspiring story of a young soldier whose courage continues to be remembered even today.