Rajnath Singh Honours Family of PVC Awardee Arun Khetarpal at 'Ikkis' Screening

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently attended a special screening for the upcoming war film 'Ikkis'. At the event, he honored the family of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, a Param Vir Chakra recipient who heroically died in the 1971 war. The movie, starring Agastya Nanda, is based on Khetarp

Key Points: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Felicitates Family of War Hero Arun Khetarpal at 'Ikkis' Film Screening

  • Defence Minister Rajnath Singh honours family of 1971 war hero Arun Khetarpal
  • Special screening held for upcoming war drama 'Ikkis' based on Khetarpal's life
  • Minister interacted with film's cast including Agastya Nanda and Jaideep Ahlawat
  • Event underscores national recognition of armed forces' bravery
  • Film 'Ikkis' marks posthumous screen appearance of veteran actor Dharmendra
  • Movie's release date shifted from December 2025 to January 2026
2 min read

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh felicitates Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal's family during 'Ikkis' special screening

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended a special screening of war drama 'Ikkis', based on PVC awardee Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, and honoured his family members in New Delhi.

"Felicitated the family members of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, PVC, and the next of kin of his tank crew at the special screening of the film 'Ikkis' in New Delhi. Arun Khetarpal fought valiantly in the 1971 war and made the supreme sacrifice for the nation. - Rajnath Singh / Defence Minister"

New Delhi, December 22

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended a special screening of Agastya Nanda's upcoming war drama, 'Ikkis', in the national capital.

At the event, he not only interacted with 'Ikkis' actors Agastya and Jaideep Ahlawat, but also felicitated the family members of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who laid down his life during the 1971 India-Pakistan war at the age of 21.

Taking to his official X handle, Rajnath Singh shared pictures from the event, as he honoured the braveheart's sacrifice and extended best wishes for the team.

"Felicitated the family members of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, PVC, and the next of kin of his tank crew at the special screening of the film 'Ikkis' in New Delhi. Arun Khetarpal fought valiantly in the 1971 war and made the supreme sacrifice for the nation. The film Ikkis showcases his bravery and celebrates the courage of our Armed Forces. Also had a wonderful interaction with the actors of Ikkis. I wish them success in their future endeavours," he wrote in the caption.

'Ikkis', which is set to release less than two weeks from now, is based on Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. The film stars Agastya Nanda in the lead, alongside Jaideep Ahlawat, Suhasini Mulay, Sikander Kher, and Rahul Dev.

The film also marks Dharmendra's posthumous screen appearance.

The final trailer of 'Ikkis' was recently unveiled, offering viewers a deeper look into the war hero's life.

It showcases intense battlefield sequences. The highlight of the trailer comes when Dharmendra's character reflects on Arun's legacy, saying he will "always be 21."

Directed by Sriram Raghavan, 'Ikkis', initially scheduled for December 25, will now release on January 1, 2026.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone who grew up hearing stories of the 1971 war from my grandfather, I'm glad films like 'Ikkis' are being made. Honoring the family is a beautiful touch. Looking forward to watching it.
V
Vikram M
Respect to the Khetarpal family. Their son's bravery is legendary in the Army. While I appreciate the film, I do hope they focus on the facts and the raw courage, not just dramatic Bollywood-style action. Our real heroes deserve an authentic portrayal.
P
Priya S
"Always be 21." That line from the trailer gave me goosebumps. So young, yet such immense courage. It's heartwarming to see the government acknowledge the families who have given so much for the nation.
R
Rohit P
Good move to involve the Defence Minister. Brings more attention to the film and the story. Hope it inspires more youth to join the forces. The Param Vir Chakra stories need to be told again and again.
M
Michael C
Interesting to see a war film getting this level of official recognition. The story sounds incredibly powerful. Wishing the team all the best for the release.

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