Sriram Raghavan breaks silence on Dhurandhar success ahead of Ikkis release: 'Not our kind of film; following that format is the silliest thing to do'

Sriram Raghavan’s Ikkis stars Agastya Nanda as 1971 war hero Arun Khetarpal. Featuring Dharmendra’s final role, the biopic releases Jan 1, 2026, following Dhurandhar’s massive box office success.

Sriram Raghavan; Agastya Nanda in a still from Ikkis; Ranveer Singh in a still from Dhurandhar

Sriram Raghavan, widely recognised for his expertise in the noir and thriller genres, is set to venture into the war epic category with his upcoming biographical drama, Ikkis. As the film approaches its theatrical debut on January 1, 2026, the filmmaker recently addressed the changing landscape of Indian cinema, specifically in relation to the massive commercial success of Aditya Dhar’s spy-actioner, Dhurandhar.

Unprecedented box office success of Dhurandhar

Dhurandhar shattered 2025 box office records. The movie, which stars Ranveer Singh and Akshaye Khanna, has surpassed all expectations and become the highest-grossing Indian film of the year, earning more than ₹1100 crore globally and ₹700 crore domestically. It is Ranveer's first film to surpass the ₹1000 crore mark globally and is now the seventh highest-grossing Indian film of all time.

Multiple December releases, including Ikkis rescheduled their release dates to avoid being overshadowed by the film's dominating performance.

ALSO READ: Ikkis First Review Out: Agastya Nanda-Dharmendra's film has 'great deal of realism'

Contrasting directorial styles

In a recent interview with The Hindu, Raghavan was asked to compare the high-octane style of Dhurandhar with his foray into the espionage genre, specifically his 2012 film Agent Vinod. The filmmaker acknowledged the achievements of Dhar's film, but he stressed the need to be true to his own narrative voice.

Although Raghavan praised the film's actors, he insisted that Dhurandhar was simply not their style of film. He stated, "It is a well-made film with terrific performances, but it is not our kind of film. We must understand that we are living in different times. Dhurandhar is one movie. It is doing spectacularly well, and it should. But this is not the only format. If I start following it, it will be the silliest thing to do."

Respecting different artistic sensibilities

Raghavan went on to say that he appreciates the technical skill required to make modern blockbusters but that his artistic approach is still very much his own. He went on to say, "He (Aditya) has a different kind of sensibility and craft, and I love watching his films, but it is not something I would make."

Ikkis follows the life of the youngest person to ever receive the Param Vir Chakra, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. In the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War, the film follows 21-year-old Khetarpal as he fights for his life at the Battle of Basantar. Agastya Nanda portrays the young officer in his big-screen debut.

Dharmendra's final performance

Since it involves the last screen appearance of the renowned Dharmendra, the project holds a lot of emotional weight. The veteran actor, who passed away on November 24, 2025, portrays Arun’s father, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal. The makers revealed that Dharmendra put his utmost effort into the role, even crafting his dialogue in Urdu to ensure authenticity.

Ikkis also has Jaideep Ahlawat in a pivotal role. Reportedly, the actor's performance as a Pakistani officer is crucial, setting up an intriguing dynamic between Dharmendra's and Nanda's roles.

Realistic approach to combat

The film has been in the works since 2019, and its goal is not to provide an overly patriotic story but rather an honest, individual view of combat. The biographical film will get a wide theatrical premiere on January 1, 2026.

Ikkis FAQs:

Q: When is the release date of the movie Ikkis?

A: The biographical war drama Ikkis is scheduled for a wide theatrical release on January 1, 2026.

Q: Is Ikkis based on a true story?

A: Yes, Ikkis is based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. The film depicts his heroic actions and martyrdom at the age of 21 during the Battle of Basantar in the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War

Q: Which was Dharmendra’s last film before he passed away?

A: Sriram Raghavan’s Ikkis marks the final screen appearance of the legendary actor Dharmendra.

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