Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar continues to bulldoze the box office — and its impact is now reshaping release calendars. Riding on record-breaking numbers, including the biggest second weekend ever for a Hindi film, the Ranveer Singh-led spy thriller has prompted another major title to step aside.
Sriram Raghavan’s war drama Ikkis has officially been postponed.
Ikkis Gets a New Release Date
On Wednesday, Maddock Films announced that Ikkis, originally slated for December 25, will now hit theatres on January 1, 2026. The announcement came with a new poster and a powerful message positioning the film as a New Year release rooted in courage and sacrifice.
The makers also confirmed that the final trailer will debut in theatres this weekend, adding to anticipation around the film.
With the shift, Ikkis smartly avoids a crowded Christmas window that includes Dhurandhar, James Cameron’s Avatar release in India, and Karan Johar’s Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri starring Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday.
Trade Calls It a Smart Business Move
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh backed the decision, pointing out that recent postponements — including Hindi Medium and Chhaava — ultimately benefited from clearer runs.
According to him, Dhurandhar shows no signs of slowing down, while Avatar is set for a massive Indian rollout. In such a scenario, neither film would give up screens or prime shows during Christmas week.
By moving to January 1, Ikkis is now positioned as a solo release, ensuring stronger screen allocation and better visibility at key properties.
What Ikkis Is About
Directed by Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis marks the filmmaker’s first war film and tells the story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee.
The film is set against the backdrop of the Battle of Basantar during the 1971 India–Pakistan War.
The cast includes:
- Agastya Nanda, making his theatrical debut
- Jaideep Ahlawat
- Simar Bhatia
- Dharmendra, in what is being described as his final on-screen appearance
Dhurandhar’s Ripple Effect Continues
Meanwhile, Dhurandhar remains unstoppable. With massive footfalls, sustained weekday strength, and record-setting weekends, the film has become one of the defining box office forces of 2025 — strong enough to alter industry plans around it.
Final Words
The postponement of Ikkis isn’t a retreat — it’s a recalibration. With a clear release window, strong patriotic appeal, and Sriram Raghavan at the helm, the film now enters 2026 with momentum firmly on its side.
Sometimes, stepping back a week is the smartest way to move forward.
