'Maddock Films' is once again set to enthrall the cinema lovers with an inspiring tale. They have recently unveiled the teaser for the movie 'Ikkis', shedding light on its captivating storyline and introducing the stellar cast. 'Ikkis' marks the theatrical debut of Agastya Nanda, grandson of Amitabh Bachchan, alongside Akshay Kumar's niece, Simar Bhatia, who will grace the silver screen with her Bollywood debut. The movie is based on the extraordinary life of martyred Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal.
Meet the Legendary Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal from 'Ikkis'
'Ikkis' portrays the heroics of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, a valiant soldier who became a martyr during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. Agastya Nanda steps into the shoes of this brave warrior, who sacrificed his life at the tender age of 21. The Government of India posthumously honored him with the highest gallantry award, the Param Vir Chakra, for his unparalleled bravery. Yet, the full extent of his story remains largely untold. Few know about his origins or his family, making it essential to delve deeper into his background and legacy.
Source: aajtak
Arun Khetarpal was born on 14 October 1950 in Pune, Maharashtra, into a Punjabi Hindu Khatri family. Originally from Sargodha, which is now in Pakistan, his family relocated to India during the partition. A legacy of service runs in the Khetarpal family, with his father, Lieutenant M.L. Khetarpal, having served in the Indian Army, his grandfather fighting in World War I, and his great-grandfather being part of the Sikh Khalsa Army.
Displaying Gallantry in the 1971 Indo-Pak War
On 13 June 1971, Arun Khetarpal was commissioned into the 17th Poona Horse and was soon thrust into the chaos of the Indo-Pakistani war, part of the Indian Army's 47th Infantry Brigade. During the Battle of Basantar, he charged towards Pakistani forces, leading his regiment to destroy multiple enemy tanks. Despite facing dire odds and the destruction of many of his regiment's tanks, he stood steadfast, continuing to assault enemy positions until his last breath.
Khetarpal's gallant defense with his lone tank resulted in the destruction of ten enemy tanks. Even though he sustained injuries from enemy fire, he remained undeterred, leaving a lasting mark on the battlefield. Recorded radio communications of his last stand, honored in the 'Ikkis' teaser with Agastya echoing his words, reflect his courageous resolve. Despite orders to abandon his tank, his refusal underscored his commitment to defeat the enemy.
Watch the Teaser of 'Ikkis':
In his final moments, Khetarpal steadfastly declared over the radio, 'No, Sir, I will not abandon my tank. My main gun is still operational, and I will destroy these bastards.' Arun Khetarpal's gallant stand on 16 December 1971 played a pivotal role in India's victory over Pakistan. Posthumously honored with the Param Vir Chakra, Arun Khetarpal remains one of the youngest recipients of the most prestigious military decoration.
Dharmendra, Jaideep Ahlawat Also Join the Ensemble Cast
Over the years, numerous Bollywood films have been crafted around the stories of Indian Army martyrs, stirring patriotism among audiences. 'Maddock Films' had previously captured viewers with 'Sky Force,' a story of the 1965 air campaign between India and Pakistan, highlighting India's bold strike on Sargodha.
The movie portrayed an untold tale of Squadron Leader A.B. Devayya, who went missing in Pakistan during this strike, only to be rediscovered by his Group Captain, Kumar Om Ahuja. Similarly, the 2021 release 'Shershaah,' starring Siddharth Malhotra, revisited the heroics of Captain Vikram Batra in the 1999 Kargil War. With 'Ikkis,' audiences will now uncover the valiant tale of Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal.
Source: aajtak
Besides Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia, 'Ikkis' boasts legendary actor Dharmendra and the charismatic Jaideep Ahlawat, known for his standout performances. While the roles of these stars remain shrouded in mystery, the film's anticipation is tangible. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, known for 'Badlapur,' 'Andhadhun,' and 'Agent Vinod,' 'Ikkis' is set to release on October 2, Gandhi Jayanti.
