What is the story about?
Simar Bhatia steps into the film industry alongside Sriram Raghavan’s Ikkis. She is teamed up with Agastya Nanda. With the film set to premiere on January
1, 2026, the production team released the final trailer on Friday (December 19). It received widespread acclaim and affection from the film community. Ikkis marks the final project of veteran actor Dharmendra. Numerous Bollywood stars, including Dharmendra’s sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, expressed their support for the biopic of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal PVC. Karan Johar greeted Simar as she enters the cinematic realm. In reply, she showcased her humor on social media. For those who may not know, Simar is Akshay Kumar’s niece, being the daughter of his sister Alka Bhatia.
Simar Bhatia playfully jests with Karan Johar
When Karan posted the final trailer of Ikkis on his Instagram Stories, he commented, “SOLID!!!! Cheering for you Aggy!!!! Welcome to the film industry @simarbhatia18…you look stunning!!!” Simar reposted his Story and playfully teased him, saying, “Thank you, sir. Phir mujhe Dharma ka picture kyun nahin diya?”
Akshay Kumar expresses affection for niece Simar
On December 3, Akshay wrote a heartfelt message for his niece Simar. He expressed, “From holding you as a little baby to now witnessing you enter the film industry… life has truly come full circle. Simar, I’ve watched you evolve from a timid girl who would hide behind her mother into this self-assured young woman ready to embrace the camera as if it were her destiny. The journey may be tough, but knowing you, you’ll approach it with that same enthusiasm, that same sincerity, and that same fierce determination that is part of our family legacy. Our Bhatia philosophy is straightforward: work hard, do it with passion, and then watch the universe work its magic. I’m incredibly proud of you, beta… The world is about to discover Simar Bhatia… but to me, you’ve always been a star. Go shine! Jai Mahadev.”
In reply, Simar remarked, “I can never fully articulate what your love and support mean to me. You always said, “Maa teri ek hai, par main do-do maavan de barabar haan,” and that’s precisely how you’ve loved me. Everything strong within me stems from the security you provided. Thank you, MA MA. I love you beyond what words can express.”
About Ikkis
Ikkis chronicles the life of Arun Khetarpal from his commissioning into the 17 Poona Horse regiment after completing his training at the Indian Military Academy to his valorous deeds during the Battle of Basantar in December 1971. Directed by Sriram Raghavan and produced by Maddock Films, Ikkis also features Jaideep Ahlawat, Deepak Dobriyal, and others in significant roles.
