Ikkis is set to hit the screen in 2026 with a thrilling mix of patriotism and heartfelt emotion. The movie depicts the heroic journey of Arun Khetarpal, the 21-year-old who earned the distinction of being the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra for his fearless actions during the 1971 India-Pakistan conflict. Though planned for December 25, the release date shifted to January 1, yet the producers secured timely censor clearance targeting that initial Christmas window.
CBFC’s opening modifications
Bollywood Hungama reports that the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has requested the filmmakers to revise the opening disclaimer appropriately and add a special acknowledgement for the Poona Horse Regiment, Colonel Hanuth Singh, and the tank crew. This update must also be conveyed through a voiceover. Subsequently, the sequence includes images of the warriors along with an introductory voiceover detailing Arun’s tank crew.
End credits directives
For the end credits, the producers received directives to insert text paired with a voiceover narration. They adjusted the credits as required and incorporated a striking full image of a Lt. General, based on input from a defense specialist. Considering the film’s war genre and commitment to authenticity, the team supplied a permission letter from the Khetarpal family plus verified documentation for all scenes drawn from real history.
Key edits mandated
Regarding the edits, the CBFC required the removal of a tank’s name in the film’s second half. Additionally, a 15-second dialogue on India-Pakistan relations had to be cut. The board also directed the makers to hide the alcohol brand name and include an anti-smoking static card.
Certification and runtime
After implementing these modifications, ‘Ikkis’ received a U/A 13+ certification on December 15. The censor certificate lists the film’s runtime as 147.15 minutes. That translates to 2 hours, 27 minutes, and 15 seconds for the film. ‘Ikkis’ stars Agastya Nanda, Jaideep Ahlawat, newcomer Simar Bhatia, and the late Dharmendra.