The makers of Ikkis have decided to push the film’s theatrical release from December 25, 2025, to January 1, 2026, choosing to step away from what is shaping up to be one of the most crowded holiday box office windows in recent years. The move comes amid the overwhelming box office performance of Dhurandhar and the impending arrival of James Cameron’s Avatar: Fire and Ash, which is slated to release in India on December 19, 2025.
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh announced the development on social media, calling it a strategic and well-timed decision by producer Dinesh Vijan and his banner, Maddock Films. Adarsh highlighted the studio’s consistent track record of smart release planning, pointing out how similar decisions in the past have paid off handsomely.
“DINESH VIJAN’S WISE MOVE – ‘IKKIS’ SHIFTS TO 1 JAN 2026,” Adarsh wrote, recalling how Hindi Medium was shifted in 2017 after Baahubali 2 locked its release, and how Chhaava avoided a direct clash with Pushpa 2 by moving to 2025. Both films, he noted, benefited from the breathing room and went on to enjoy strong box office runs.
This Christmas week, however, presents an unusually tough battlefield. Dhurandhar continues to dominate theatres with no signs of slowing down, while Avatar: Fire and Ash is expected to command massive screen space across India. Adarsh underlined the challenge, noting that neither film is likely to give up screens or prime show timings during the festive period.
By shifting Ikkis to the first day of 2026, the makers are now eyeing a largely uncluttered theatrical window, allowing the film to reach audiences without being overshadowed by big-ticket releases. The timing also gives the film a fresh start to the new year, traditionally considered a favorable period for content-driven cinema. The final trailer of Ikkis is scheduled to drop on December 19, building momentum ahead of its revised release.
Directed by Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis narrates the story of Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of India’s Param Vir Chakra, awarded posthumously for his bravery during the 1971 Indo–Pakistani War. The film stars Agastya Nanda in the lead role and marks the final screen appearance of veteran actor Dharmendra. It also introduces Simar Bhatia, niece of Akshay Kumar, in her acting debut.
Meanwhile, Dhurandhar continues its remarkable run, with global collections crossing Rs 600 crore and domestic earnings touching Rs 422 crore within just 13 days, according to Sacnilk. Its sustained word of mouth has firmly established it as the season’s biggest box office force.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
