‘Ikkis’ is ready for release. People have high expectations for the film’s story.

While it’s Dharmendra’s last film, it also marks the theatrical debut of two star kids.

The first reviews have come out. Find out.

On Monday, December 29th, a special screening of ‘Ikkis’ was held in Mumbai, which quickly turned into a grand, star-studded evening. Many prominent Bollywood celebrities, including Salman Khan and Sunny Deol, were present. Following the screening, casting director Mukesh Chhabra shared his heartfelt review of the film, openly praising its emotional power and honest storytelling. His reaction, the first review of the film, has gone viral.

Mukesh Chhabra Reveals How ‘Ekkis’ Is

Mukesh Chhabra, commenting on the film on X (formerly Twitter), said, “Just watched ‘Ekkis,’ a film made entirely from the heart. A tender and honest story that stays with you long after it’s over. Dharmendra sir… what dignity, what depth. If this is your last film, it truly breaks my heart. You’ve given us something incredibly emotional and important. You will always be remembered, sir.”

See the post here

Just watched Ikkis — a film made purely from the heart. Gentle, honest storytelling that stays with you long after it ends.
Dharmendra sir… what grace, what depth. If this is your last film, it truly breaks the heart 💔. You’ve left us with something deeply emotional and…
— Mukesh Chhabra CSA (@CastingChhabra) December 29, 2025

Mukesh Chhabra Praises the Cast

He also praised the film’s cast. Specifically highlighting Jaideep Ahlawat’s performance, Mukesh wrote, “Jaideep Ahlawat—hats off. This was a pleasant surprise for me. A warm welcome to Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia, both of them were absolutely beautiful on screen. Sweet eyes, great chemistry. Agastya’s innocence and honesty truly shine through.” Special mention to Vivaan Shah and Sikander Kher, amazing work. And above all, Sriram Raghavan, the man, the master. Once again. This is a heart-warming, truthfully told film. Cinema that feels deeply personal.

What is the story of the film?

’21’ is a biopic war drama based on the life of Param Vir Chakra awardee Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. The film brings to life the story of his indomitable courage and martyrdom in the Battle of Basantar during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. Agastya Nanda plays the role of Arun Khetarpal. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, the film stars Dharmendra as Arun Khetarpal’s father, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal (Retd). Jaideep Ahlawat plays Pakistani army officer Brigadier Khwaja Mohammad Naseer, while Rahul Dev appears as Lieutenant Colonel (later Lieutenant General) Hanut Singh, MVC.

When is the film releasing? This film marks Agastya Nanda’s theatrical debut and Akshay Kumar’s niece Simar Bhatia’s Bollywood debut. Originally scheduled for a December 25th release, ’21’ will now hit theaters on January 1st, 2026. All eyes are on the film to see how it fares. It will also be the first release of the new year, 2026. Considering the film is a single release, it is expected to generate a decent amount of revenue this weekend.