A Grandfather’s Pride and a Soldier’s Story: Inside the Emotional Impact of the Film Ikkis

A Grandfather’s Pride and a Soldier’s Story: Veteran Indian cinema icon Amitabh Bachchan recently shared an emotional response after watching a special screening of the upcoming film Ikkis, a project that is deeply personal for him. The film marks an important milestone in his family as it features his grandson Agastya Nanda in a challenging and historically significant role. Amitabh Bachchan’s reflections are not just those of a proud grandfather, but also of a seasoned observer of cinema who has spent decades understanding performances, storytelling, and authenticity on screen.

A Personal Journey From Birth to the Big Screen

In his early morning blog post, Amitabh Bachchan revisited memories that span more than two decades, tracing Agastya Nanda’s journey from infancy to adulthood. He recalled the emotional moments surrounding Agastya’s birth, the early family memories, and the gradual evolution of a young boy into an individual who consciously chose acting as his profession. These recollections added a deeply human layer to his review, making it clear that the experience of watching Ikkis was not merely cinematic but profoundly emotional.

According to him, seeing Agastya on screen brought back a flood of memories, from holding him as a newborn to watching him confidently command the frame in a feature film. Despite this emotional connection, Amitabh Bachchan emphasized that his appreciation of the performance came from a critical and experienced viewpoint rather than familial bias.

A Performance Marked by Restraint and Honesty

One of the strongest points highlighted in Amitabh Bachchan’s review was Agastya Nanda’s maturity as a performer. He praised the young actor for avoiding unnecessary dramatization and instead delivering a grounded, honest portrayal. The role required subtlety, discipline, and emotional control, qualities that are often difficult for emerging actors to balance.

Agastya’s portrayal focuses on embodying the spirit of a young soldier rather than showcasing exaggerated heroism. This restraint, according to Amitabh Bachchan, made the character believable and impactful. Each scene was described as precise, with no excess, allowing the audience to connect with the character on a deeper level. The veteran actor noted that whenever Agastya appeared on screen, it was impossible to look away, a testament to his screen presence.

The Story of Courage at the Heart of Ikkis

Ikkis is a biographical war drama based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of India’s highest military honor. The film is set against the backdrop of the 1971 India–Pakistan War and focuses on the Battle of Basantar, where Khetarpal displayed extraordinary bravery. The title of the film refers to the age of 21, the age at which the young officer was martyred.

The narrative does not rely on over-the-top action but instead presents a respectful and realistic portrayal of war, sacrifice, and duty. This approach aligns with the film’s intention to honor a national hero while remaining true to historical context.

Direction, Writing, and Emotional Impact

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, the film has been praised for its flawless execution. Amitabh Bachchan specifically mentioned the strength of the writing and direction, noting that every element worked in harmony. The pacing, visual storytelling, and emotional arc were described as cohesive and powerful.

The ending of the film, in particular, left a strong impression. Amitabh Bachchan admitted that it moved him to tears, filling him with a sense of pride, joy, and silence. This emotional response underscores the film’s ability to connect with viewers beyond entertainment, leaving a lasting impact.

Release Details and Expectations

Ikkis is scheduled for a theatrical release on January 1, 2026. Alongside Agastya Nanda, the film introduces Simar Bhatia and features a strong ensemble cast including Dharmendra, Jaideep Ahlawat, Sikandar Kher, Suhasini Mulay, and Vivaan Shah. Produced under the banner of Maddock Films, the project is already generating significant anticipation.

With its compelling subject, strong performances, and thoughtful direction, Ikkis is positioned as one of the most awaited Indian war dramas of the coming year. The emotional endorsement from Amitabh Bachchan has further amplified interest, setting high expectations for audiences nationwide.