Sriram Raghavan trades bullets for tears in Ikkis - A war film that hurts and heals

New Delhi: In an age of loud, chest-thumping patriotic dramas, Ikkis arrives like a quiet storm. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, the thriller master known for Andhadhun, the film trades guns-blazing heroism for soulful storytelling.

It revisits the heroic yet heartbreaking story of 21-year-old war hero Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, offering emotion over spectacle and reflection over rhetoric. With stellar performances and subtle direction, Ikkis makes you feel every shot fired and every silence that follows.

Set during the 1971 India-Pakistan war, Ikkis follows young Arun Khetarpal (Agastya Nanda), a freshly minted officer from the Indian Army who dreams big but meets destiny too soon. His father, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal (Dharmendra), represents a generation that has lived through war’s scars. The film weaves between 1971 and 2001, showing how memory, sacrifice, and loss stretch across decades. The Battle of Basantar is recreated with breathtaking authenticity—tank warfare that is both cinematic and claustrophobic.

Agastya Nanda, in his first serious film role, impresses with sincerity. He captures Arun’s innocence and courage with understated charm, proving he’s here for the craft, not just the lineage. Opposite him, Dharmendra delivers a heartbreaking, graceful farewell performance. As the father who must live with his son’s sacrifice, he conveys years of pain through silence, making his final turn a masterclass in restraint.

Jaideep Ahlawat stands tall as Pakistani officer Brigadier Naseer, portrayed with rare dignity and depth. His interactions with Dharmendra bring an emotional richness that lingers long after the credits roll.

However, the film’s slow-burning pace may not please those expecting fast action. Raghavan’s non-linear storytelling sometimes feels disjointed, and the music barely registers. The climax, too, chooses reflection over triumph — affecting, but less "massy."

Still, Ikkis moves you in ways few war films dare. It’s an ode to empathy, a salute to real courage, and a touching goodbye from one of Hindi cinema’s legends. 

A war film that whispers instead of shouts — and still leaves a lasting echo.

Movie name: Ikkis

Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri director: Sriram Raghavan

Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri cast: Agastya Nanda, Dharmendra, Jaideep Ahalwat, Simar Bhatia, Rahul Dev, Vivaan Shah, Sikandar Kher

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Ikkis Ratings: (4/5)

(With inputs from Sonali Nayak)