Dharmendra’s swansong Ikkis is all set to release in theatres on January 1, 2026.Based on the life of Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra for his bravery during the 1971 India–Pakistan
war, the movie has gone through the censor process, and updates suggest that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) asked the makers for certain modifications.
The CBFC has demanded modifications in the opening scenes and end credits, including the addition of acknowledgements for the Poona Horse Regiment, Colonel Hanut Singh, and the tank crew in text and voiceover in the opening disclaimer.
The Central Board has also asked for a consent letter from a member of the Khetarpal family, considering the genre of the film, and has requested documents for scenes based on true events.
Cuts requested by the Central Board
In the second half of the film, the tank’s name has been asked to be deleted. Along with this, a 15-second dialogue about India–Pakistan relations was asked to be removed from the film. With a demand for alcohol brand names to be blurred and an anti-smoking static, the movie passed with a U/A 13+ certificate on December 15.
About Ikkis
Helmed by National Award-winning filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis shares the inspiring story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. Khetarpal took on the enemy head-on during the Battle of Basantar, destroying 10 Pakistani tanks before losing his life.
Accompanying Agastya Nanda, the project will also see Simar Bhatia, Dharmendra, Jaideep Ahlawat, Sikandar Kher, and Deepak Dobriyal in significant roles, along with others.
Ikkis to get 30–40% shows
As per Bollywood Hungama, a source shared, “Ikkis is distributed by Jio Studios, which is also the distributor as well as the producer of Dhurandhar. Hence, they have no qualms now if Dhurandhar’s shows reduce, since the Ranveer Singh starrer has already done huge business. Moreover, it will enter its fifth week on Friday, January 2. Accordingly, they have asked for around 30–40% showcasing for Ikkis.”
