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Ikkis Cast Honors a Hero: Tribute to India's Youngest Param Vir Chakra Winner

The cast and director of the upcoming film 'Ikkis' gathered in Mumbai to pay tribute to its subject, Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. Agastya Nanda, who plays the young war hero, got emotional while speaking about his role. The event was attended by senior Indian Army officers and included the unveiling of an army tank. The film, which also features Dharmendra's final performance, is set for a Christmas Day release.

Key Points: Ikkis Cast Pays Tribute to Lt Arun Khetarpal Ahead of Film Release

  • The film 'Ikkis' tells the true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, a 21-year-old war hero
  • Agastya Nanda portrays Khetarpal, joined by Jaideep Ahlawat and Simar Bhatia in key roles
  • The tribute event featured Indian Army officers and the unveiling of a tank
  • The movie marks the final big-screen appearance of the late legendary actor Dharmendra
2 min read

'Ikkis' cast pays tribute to Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal ahead of film's release

Agastya Nanda and the 'Ikkis' team honored Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee, at a Mumbai event ahead of the film's release.

"I think that if we take anything away from this film, it's that you're never too young to change the world. - Agastya Nanda"

Mumbai, December 4

The lead cast and the director of 'Ikkis' paid a heartfelt tribute to Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, at an event in Mumbai on Thursday.

'Ikkis' brings the true untold story of India's youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee - Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who was just 21 at the time of the 1971 Indo-Pakistani war.

Agastya Nanda is set to play the role of Lt Arun Khetarpal in the film. He will be joined by Jaideep Ahlawat and Simar Bhatia in the prominent roles. It is directed by Sriram Raghavan.

To celebrate the bravery of Lt. Arun Khetarpal, the makers organised a tribute event for the courageous hero, attended by the Indian Army and the film's lead cast.

In the presence of Lt. Gen. D.S. Kushwah and other Indian Army officers, the makers of 'Ikkis' posed for a photo with a photo of Arun Khetarpal.

Agastya Nanda also got emotional as he recalled his journey in the movie, where he portrayed the role of Arun Khetarpal. While addressing the attendees, Nanda called Arun Khetarpal a "brave and passionate" soldier of India.

"Main thing that stood out for me about this story is about how young Arun Khetarpal is. I would like to address the young kids sitting over there who've come from school. I hope that when you watch this film, you'll be able to learn something from Arun Khetarpal. He was a very brave, passionate soldier," said Agastya Nanda.

He continued, "I think that if we take anything away from this film, it's that you're never too young to change the world. So, this is mainly for the younger people out here and my immense pride and gratitude to every soldier, every person a part of the Indian Army."

The event concluded with the unveiling of a huge army tank, in remembrance of Arun Khetarpal's contribution in the 1971 war.

'Ikkis,' set to release on December 25. The movie will also mark the late, legendary actor Dharmendra's final appearance on the big screen. The actor passed away on November 24 at his residence in Mumbai.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
It's heartwarming to see our film industry honoring real heroes instead of just making masala movies. Agastya Nanda seems to have really connected with the role. Looking forward to this!
R
Rohit P
My grandfather served in the 1971 war. He always spoke of Lt. Khetarpal's bravery with tears in his eyes. I'm glad the new generation will learn about him. Hope the film does justice to his sacrifice.
S
Sarah B
As someone new to Indian history, I find these stories incredibly moving. 21 years old and a Param Vir Chakra recipient... that's beyond heroic. Will definitely watch this film.
V
Vikram M
Respectfully, I hope the focus remains on the soldier's story and not just star power. These biopics sometimes get lost in dramatization. But Sriram Raghavan is a solid director, so fingers crossed.
K
Kavya N
The fact that they had Army officers at the event gives it authenticity. And it's Dharmendra ji's last film? That makes it even more special. A fitting tribute all around.

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