2026 will open on a patriotic and emotional note with Ikkis, the biopic about Arun Khetarpal — the 21-year-old who became the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra for his bravery during the 1971 India-Pakistan war. The film, which was originally slated for a December 25 release, has been moved to January 1. With the Christmas release window in mind, the makers completed the censor formalities on time and the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) cleared the film after a few suggested changes.
What the CBFC asked the makers to add
- Opening disclaimer: The board asked for a suitably modified opening disclaimer and a clear acknowledgement of the Poona Horse Regiment, Colonel Hanuth Singh and the tank crew.
- Voiceover and visuals: The acknowledgement is to be communicated via voiceover, followed by photographs of warriors and an introductory voiceover introducing Arun’s tank crew.
- End credits: A text with a voiceover was requested for the end credits. The credits were tweaked, and an iconic, full image of a Lieutenant General was added on the suggestion of a defence expert.
Documents and family consent for authenticity
Given the film’s genre and its realistic depiction of historical events, the makers submitted a consent letter from a member of the Khetarpal family. They also provided proper documentation for scenes based on true events to ensure factual accuracy and sensitivity toward real people and institutions portrayed on screen.
Cuts and technical edits
- Dialogue trimmed: A 15-second dialogue related to India‑Pakistan relations in the second half was removed.
- Tank name removed: The name of a tank that appeared in the latter half was asked to be deleted.
- Branding and warnings: An alcohol brand name was blurred and anti-smoking static warnings were added where required.
Certification, runtime and release update
After the requested changes were implemented, Ikkis was awarded a U/A (13+) certificate by the CBFC on December 15. The censor certificate lists the film’s length as 147.15 minutes — that’s 2 hours, 27 minutes and 15 seconds. Although the team had targeted a Christmas release, the film will now welcome audiences on January 1, 2026.
Cast and tone to expect
Ikkis features Agastya Nanda in the lead, supported by Jaideep Ahlawat, newcomer Simar Bhatia, and the late Dharmendra. The film promises a mix of patriotism, emotion and gritty realism, staying rooted in the lived experiences of Arun Khetarpal and his tank crew. Early reactions from special screenings have indicated that the film carries an emotional weight beyond what the trailer suggests.
Final takeaway
With careful vetting by the CBFC, family consent and expert inputs, Ikkis aims to handle a revered real-life story with sensitivity while delivering a stirring cinematic tribute to one of India’s youngest war heroes. Expect a solemn, respectful portrayal when it arrives in theatres on New Year’s Day.