Ikkis cast: Director Sriram Raghavan’s latest film ‘Ikkis’ is quietly winning hearts. Set during the 1971 Indo-Pak war, the film is inspired by the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of India’s highest military honour, the Param Vir Chakra. Backed by Maddock Films, the movie recreates the intense Battle of Basantar, where Arun Khetarpal was martyred at just 21.
What makes ‘Ikkis’ special is its cast. Each actor steps into the shoes of real, real people. Here is a closer look at who plays whom in this powerful war drama.
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Agastya Nanda as Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal
Agastya Nanda takes on the most important role in ‘Ikkis’, that of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal.
Arun Khetarpal was only 21 years old when he laid down his life during the Battle of Basantar. Despite being badly injured and repeatedly warned to pull back, he chose to stay and fight.
Dharmendra as Brigadier ML Khetarpal
‘Ikkis’ marks the posthumous release of legendary actor Dharmendra. Dharmendra plays Brigadier ML Khetarpal, Arun Khetarpal’s father.
In the film, ML Khetarpal travels to Lahore for a college reunion and ends up staying at Naseer’s home without knowing that this man was involved in his son’s death.
Also Read: ‘Pind Apne Nu Jaanwa’: Dharmendra’s poem from ‘Ikkis’ released by Maddock Films
Jaideep Ahlawat as Brigadier Khwaja Mohammed Naseer
Jaideep Ahlawat brings his trademark intensity to ‘Ikkis’. His character is first introduced simply as Naseer.
By the end of the story, it is revealed that Naseer is actually Brigadier Khwaja Mohammed Naseer, the Pakistani officer who fired at Arun Khetarpal’s tank during the Battle of Basantar.
Rahul Dev as Lieutenant Colonel Hanut Singh
Rahul Dev plays Lieutenant Colonel Hanut Singh, later known as Lieutenant General Hanut Singh.
He is shown as the commanding officer of Arun Khetarpal and the man who led the tank regiment during the 1971 war.
Vivaan Shah as Captain Vijender Malhotra
Vivaan Shah plays Captain Vijender Malhotra, a fellow officer and colleague of Arun Khetarpal. The two fight side by side during the Indo-Pak war of 1971.
Sikandar Kher as RIS Sagat Singh
Sikandar Kher appears as RIS Sagat Singh, a senior field officer who acts as the backbone of the regiment.
His character is experienced, steady, and dependable, the kind of officer younger soldiers look up to.
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