A touching behind-the-scenes detail from Ikkis has come to light: Bobby Deol has dubbed a few lines for his late father, legend Dharmendra, to voice the younger on-screen version of his character. The decision adds a quietly emotional layer to the film and reinforces its themes of legacy and remembrance.
Bobby Deol lends his voice to Dharmendra
In a rare and intimate collaboration, Bobby recorded several dialogues intended to represent his father’s younger voice on screen. Filmmakers say the move was made to create a seamless transition across timelines and to bring authenticity to the portrayal. Viewers who notice the vocal continuity are likely to find the sequence more personal and resonant.
As a mark of appreciation, Bobby Deol has been given a special thanks in the film’s credits — a small but meaningful acknowledgment of the family connection behind the scenes.
First reactions: critics praise the film’s emotional core
Early reviews for Ikkis have been overwhelmingly positive. Critics have highlighted the film’s emotional depth, sincerity and powerful storytelling, noting that it handles its subject with sensitivity and gravitas. The film’s tone, performances and direction have been singled out as core strengths.
Cast to watch
- Agastya Nanda plays Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the central figure whose bravery the film honours.
- Jaideep Ahlawat and Simar Bhatia feature in key roles, adding weight to the ensemble.
The story and its significance
Ikkis is inspired by the life and martyrdom of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who, at 21, became the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra after sacrificing his life during the 1971 India-Pakistan war. The film aims to pay tribute to his courage while capturing the personal and national stakes of that era.
Filmmakers, release date and a censorship note
Directed by Sriram Raghavan and produced by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films, Ikkis is set to arrive in cinemas on January 1, 2026. Positioned as the first big release of the year, the film intends to open 2026 on a note of courage, legacy and heartfelt tribute.
Separately, reports say the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) asked for the deletion of a brief, 15-second dialogue referencing India-Pakistan relations. The edit has been noted in discussions around the film’s release.
Why this matters
Beyond its storytelling, the film’s small creative choices — like Bobby Deol lending his voice to his father’s younger self — amplify its emotional impact. Such moments make Ikkis not just a cinematic retelling of heroism, but also a film about memory, family and the ways we honour the past.
