Ikkis team recalls initial doubts over casting Dharmendra: 'He was so happy after reading the script and said this is me...'

Ikkis team remembers Dharmendra

• Ikkis is Dharmendra's final film, marking an emotional farewell for fans
• The film is based on PVC awardee Arun Khetarpal and features a star-studded cast
• Dharmendra's dedication and passion were remembered fondly by the filmmakers

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When Ikkis was in the works, few could have imagined it would become Dharmendra’s final film. The Sriram Raghavan-directed drama, based on the life of PVC awardee 2nd Lt. Arun Khetarpal, also marks the Bollywood debut of Akshay Kumar’s niece Simar Bhatia and the theatrical debut of Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson Agastya Nanda.

But for many, the biggest reason to flock to theatres was simply to witness Dharam Paaji’s magic on screen one last time. Interestingly, the filmmakers were initially unsure about casting Dharmendra as Arun’s onscreen father, Brigadier Madan Lal Khetarpal (retd).

In a candid chat with Indian Express, Ikkis co-writer Pooja Ladha Surti opened up about those early debates. “Internally, we had a bit of a debate about casting him; some felt he was no longer relevant. But Sriram was sure, it had to be him. All three of us were sure it had to be him. We have been his fans all along, and it’s sad that he is no longer with us. But the passion he had for his work, the fact that he used to write all the dialogues, including those of other actors in Urdu, and even be on set for filler shots, is something I’ll never forget,” she recalled.

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Pooja went on to share a memory that perfectly captures Dharmendra’s energy and dedication. “In fact, I remember the zeal he had; it’s something even the younger lot doesn’t possess. I vividly remember when he heard the script, he said, ‘This is me. How can anyone else do this?’ He was so happy and even told Sriram that if, for any reason, he couldn’t do it, the story must still be made, it’s too important to not be told in these times.”

Also Read: Ikkis midd-credits disclaimer triggers online debate; netizens call it the ‘Dhurandhar effect’

Co-written by Sriram Raghavan, Arijit Biswas and Pooja Ladha Surti, Ikkis is produced by Dinesh Vijan, Binny Padda, Sharada Karki Jalota and Poonam Shivdasani.

The film also features a talented ensemble cast including Jaideep Ahlawat, Sikander Kher and Deepak Dobriyal. Released on 1 January 2026, the film has been praised for its moving portrayal of heroism, patriotism, and family, made even more poignant by Dharmendra’s final performance.