Dharmendra’s Final Performance: Bollywood Legend to Grace Silver Screen Posthumously in ‘Ikkis’

Mumbai, Maharashtra – Bollywood icon Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24, 2025, will appear on the silver screen one last time in the upcoming film Ikkis, releasing this Christmas on December 25, 2025. Fans of the “He-Man of Bollywood” will get a final glimpse of the legendary actor, immortalized in his portrayal of M.L. Khetarpal, father of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra.

Dharmendra, known for timeless classics such as Sholay (1975), Dharam Veer (1977), Rajput (1982), Loha (1987), and many more, has left an indelible mark on Hindi cinema. His recent appearances in Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya (2024) and Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani (2023) showcased his versatility, playing roles of a loving husband and grandfather.

The makers of Ikkis recently unveiled a poster featuring Dharmendra, captioned:
"Fathers raise sons, Legends raise nations. Dharmendra Ji, an emotional powerhouse as the father of a 21-year-old immortal soldier. One timeless legend brings us the story of another."

In the trailer, Dharmendra’s poignant performance as a grieving father highlights his unmatched emotional depth. Speaking of his character’s young son, he says:
"Chhota tha na, mujhse army ki kahaaniyaan suna karta ta… Ab wo jabaaz, kiss ban gya hai [When he was young, I used to narrate army stories to him. Now the brave soldier has become a story]."

The film stars Agastya Nanda as Arun Khetarpal, alongside Jaideep Ahlawat, Sikandar Kher, Akavali Khanna, Shree Bishnoi, and Aadyanshi Kapoor, and is produced by Maddock Films under Dinesh Vijan. Ikkis chronicles the life and ultimate sacrifice of Arun Khetarpal during the 1971 Indo-Pak war, celebrating the valor of one of India’s youngest war heroes.

Fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the film, which promises not only a tribute to a national hero but also a heartfelt farewell to one of Bollywood’s most cherished legends.