As Ikkis prepares to hit theatres, Sunny Deol has shared a deeply moving note that has struck an emotional chord with fans and the film fraternity alike. The biographical war drama holds special meaning for the Deol family, as it marks Dharmendra’s posthumous screen appearance, turning the film into far more than just another release.
Taking to social media, Sunny described Ikkis as a personal tribute — not just to a war hero, but to his father’s life, values, and unbreakable bond with the land and people he loved.
“A salute, a gift, and a treasure for us”
In his emotional post, Sunny wrote that Ikkis represents his father’s spirit in its purest form. Calling Dharmendra “the man of the soil,” he described the film as a salute to everything his father stood for — courage, humility, and love for his fans.
Sunny added that for their family, Ikkis is a treasure filled with Dharmendra’s heart and spirit, and expressed hope that the film would live on with audiences the way his father’s legacy always has.
The post quickly resonated online, with fans praising the Deol family’s grace and the emotional weight behind the film.
A screening filled with memories and emotions
Sunny’s message came shortly after a special screening of Ikkis that turned into an emotional reunion for the industry. Several prominent figures attended to honour Dharmendra’s legacy, including Salman Khan and Rekha, along with close friends and family members.
For many present, the evening was less about a film preview and more about celebrating a life that shaped generations of Indian cinema.
Why Ikkis matters
Directed by Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis tells the story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee, who was martyred at just 21 during the Battle of Basantar in the 1971 India–Pakistan war. The title itself reflects the age at which Arun laid down his life.
Agastya Nanda plays the young war hero, with Simar Bhatia as Kiran. Dharmendra appears as Brigadier ML Khetarpal (Retd.), Arun’s father — a role that now carries immense emotional significance. The film also features Jaideep Ahlawat, Suhasini Mulay, Sikander Kher, Rahul Dev, and Vivaan Shah in key roles.
Final words
More than a war drama, Ikkis now stands as a symbolic farewell — a film that blends national pride with personal loss and remembrance. Through Sunny Deol’s words, it’s clear that for the Deol family, this release is not about box office numbers, but about honouring a legacy that refuses to fade.
As audiences walk into theatres, Ikkis arrives not just as a story of a fallen hero, but as a heartfelt goodbye to a legend who gave his life to cinema and his heart to the people.
