Ikkis clears CBFC with a few key changes; will now kick off 2026 on a patriotic note
Ikkis, the biographical war drama about 21-year-old Arun Khetarpal — the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra for his bravery in the 1971 India-Pakistan war — has completed its censor formalities. The film, which was originally slated for a Christmas release on December 25, will now open on January 1, 2026, promising an emotional and patriotic start to the year.
What the CBFC asked to be changed
Because of the film’s sensitive, real-life subject and the effort to maintain realism and respect, the Central Board of Film Certification requested several specific modifications before granting approval. Key asks included:
- Opening disclaimer and acknowledgements: The CBFC asked the makers to modify the opening disclaimer and add an explicit acknowledgement for the Poona Horse Regiment, Colonel Hanuth Singh and the tank crew. This acknowledgement was also to be recorded as a voiceover.
- Introductory visuals and voiceover: Photographs of warriors were added and an introductory voiceover about Arun’s tank crew was included to set historical context.
- End credits adjustments: Text with a corresponding voiceover was added to the end credits. The credits were also tweaked and an iconic full image of a Lt. General was included following a defence expert’s suggestion.
- Consent and documentation: Given the portrayal of real events and people, the makers submitted a consent letter from a Khetarpal family member and supporting documents for scenes based on true events.
Requested cuts and technical changes
The board also asked for a few edits to ensure the film aligned with certification norms and sensitivities:
- Removal of the name of a tank mentioned in the second half of the film.
- Deletion of a 15-second dialogue referencing India-Pakistan relations.
- Blurring of a visible alcohol brand name in a scene and addition of anti-smoking static warnings where needed.
Certificate, runtime and what that means for viewers
After these changes were implemented, Ikkis was granted a U/A (13+) certificate by the CBFC on December 15. The film’s certified length is 147.15 minutes — that’s 2 hours, 27 minutes and 15 seconds. The U/A rating suggests it’s suitable for family viewing with parental guidance for younger viewers, given the film’s war themes and realistic portrayal.
Cast and final notes
Ikkis features Agastya Nanda in the lead, supported by Jaideep Ahlawat, newcomer Simar Bhatia, and the late Dharmendra. With the censor formalities completed on time for a Christmas window and the release pushed to New Year’s Day, audiences can expect a film that aims to balance emotional storytelling with respect for historical and military sensibilities.
Given the subject and the board’s suggested additions, the film appears to have taken care to honour those involved in the true events while shaping a narrative meant to resonate with patriotic sentiment.
