One was 21 years old when he gave his life for India. The other was 89 when he gave Indian cinema one final performance. Ikkis on Amazon Prime Video brings both these emotional stories together in a powerful war biopic that now has audiences waiting for its OTT release.
Ikkis movie 2026 is not just another patriotic drama. It tells the real story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient, while also becoming the final screen appearance of veteran superstar Dharmendra. This rare emotional combination makes Ikkis highly anticipated.
Ikkis features Dharmendra in his last role and introduces Agastya Nanda in a demanding real-life character. Jaideep Ahlawat has also played a key role in the movie. Directed by Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis blends war history with personal emotion, making its OTT release a major moment for home viewers.
Ikkis OTT Release Date and Streaming Platform
The Ikkis OTT release date has been officially confirmed for Amazon Prime Video subscribers. After completing its theatrical run, it is now set to reach a much wider audience through digital streaming.
The movie will be available for free streaming for Prime members from February 26, 2026. A rental option was also introduced earlier for viewers who wanted early access before the subscription release.
Ikkis OTT Release Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Film Title | Ikkis |
| OTT Platform | Amazon Prime Video |
| OTT Free Streaming Date | February 26, 2026 |
| Theatrical Release | January 1, 2026 |
| Language | Hindi |
| Genre | War Biopic, Patriotic Drama |
| Director | Sriram Raghavan |
| Producer | Maddock Films |
Where to Watch Ikkis Online
Ikkis will stream exclusively on Amazon Prime Video, and no other OTT platforms have been confirmed so far. Prime members will be able to watch the film without any extra cost once it becomes part of the regular streaming library.
The platform also allows offline downloads, making it convenient for viewers who prefer watching during travel. Subtitles in English are expected, keeping international audiences in mind.
The Real Story Behind Ikkis
Ikkis is based on the life of Arun Khetarpal, an Indian Army officer whose courage during the 1971 Indo-Pak war became part of military history. Born on October 14, 1950, he was commissioned into the 17 Poona Horse regiment just months before the war began.
During the Battle of Basantar in December 1971, Khetarpal led a tank assault against Pakistani armour. Despite being seriously wounded and ordered to withdraw, he refused to abandon his position. He went on to destroy multiple enemy tanks before losing his life at just 21 years of age.
Why the Title ‘Ikkis’ Matters
The word “Ikkis” means twenty-one in Hindi, directly referring to Arun Khetarpal’s age at the time of his martyrdom. The title is symbolic, reminding viewers how young he was when he displayed extraordinary bravery on the battlefield.
Rather than using a grand or dramatic name, the makers chose a simple number that carries immense emotional weight. It reflects both youth and sacrifice, which sit at the heart of the film’s narrative.
Ikkis Story and Narrative Style
Unlike conventional war films, Ikkis does not follow a strictly linear storyline. Director Sriram Raghavan weaves together moments from the battlefield with personal family interactions, creating a layered emotional experience.
The film balances intense tank combat sequences with quieter scenes that explore a father-son bond shaped by discipline, pride, and duty. This approach keeps the focus on human emotions rather than only military spectacle.
Complete Cast of Ikkis
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
| Agastya Nanda | 2nd Lt. Arun Khetarpal |
| Dharmendra | Brig. M.L. Khetarpal |
| Jaideep Ahlawat | Supporting role |
| Simar Bhatia | Supporting role |
| Rahul Dev | Supporting role |
| Ekavali Khanna | Supporting role |
| Sikander Kher | Supporting role |
Agastya Nanda as Arun Khetarpal
Agastya Nanda makes his Bollywood debut with Ikkis, stepping into the role of a real-life war hero. The responsibility of portraying a Param Vir Chakra recipient makes this one of the most challenging debut roles in recent Hindi cinema.
Early reactions praised his restrained performance and physical preparation for the role. Rather than exaggerating heroism, his portrayal focuses on calm determination and quiet courage.
Dharmendra’s Final Film Performance
Ikkis holds special emotional value as it marks Dharmendra’s last appearance on screen. The veteran actor passed away on November 24, 2025, before the film’s theatrical release.
In the movie, he plays Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal, a father who watches his son grow into a soldier and a hero. His understated performance adds depth to the film, making several scenes deeply moving for audiences familiar with his long career.
Sriram Raghavan’s Vision for Ikkis
Sriram Raghavan is known for thrillers like Andhadhun and Badlapur, making Ikkis an unusual but intriguing project in his filmography. Instead of loud patriotism, he focuses on moral choices and emotional realism.
His direction ensures that the film remains grounded and respectful to history. The storytelling avoids turning Arun Khetarpal into a distant legend and instead presents him as a young man facing extraordinary circumstances.
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Historical Background: Battle of Basantar
The Battle of Basantar took place on December 15 and 16, 1971, in the Shakargarh sector during the Indo-Pak war. It is considered one of the largest tank battles after World War II.
Indian forces, including the 17 Poona Horse regiment, played a crucial role in breaking Pakistani defences. Arun Khetarpal’s actions during this battle became one of the defining moments of the war.
| Battle Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Battle Name | Battle of Basantar |
| Date | December 15–16, 1971 |
| Location | Shakargarh Sector |
| Indian Regiment | 17 Poona Horse |
| Enemy Tanks Destroyed | 45 |
| Tanks Destroyed by Khetarpal | 7 |
| Award | Param Vir Chakra |
5 Reasons to Watch Ikkis on Prime Video
Reason 1: A Real Story
Arun Khetarpal youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient makes this story unforgettable. No fictional script can match the bravery shown during the Battle of Basantar 1971.
Reason 2: Emotional Depth
Ikkis Amazon Prime Video balances war action with personal emotion. The father-son relationship gives the film its heart.
Reason 3: Dharmendra’s Final Performance
Dharmendra’s last film, Ikkis, adds historical importance to the movie. Every scene now feels like a farewell.
Reason 4: Strong Direction
Ikkis Sriram Raghavan shows how a war biopic can be intense yet sensitive. His storytelling style keeps viewers engaged.
Reason 5: Impressive Debut
Ikkis Agastya Nanda proves that new talent can handle serious roles. His performance carries both physical and emotional weight.
Ikkis FAQs
When is the Ikkis OTT release date?
Ikkis will start streaming for free on Amazon Prime Video from February 26, 2026. Rental access began earlier on February 12, 2026.
Is this Dharmendra’s last film?
Yes, Ikkis is officially Dharmendra’s final on-screen appearance.
Is Ikkis Agastya Nanda’s debut film?
Yes, this film marks Agastya Nanda’s Bollywood debut.
In which language is Ikkis available?
The film is available in Hindi, with English subtitles expected on Prime Video.
Is Ikkis based on a true story?
Yes, the film is based on the real-life story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, a Param Vir Chakra awardee.