by On the evening of December 29, 2025, Mumbai witnessed one of the most emotionally charged and star-studded film screenings in recent memory. The special preview of Ikkis, an upcoming war drama directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, transformed a routine promotional event into a historic moment for Hindi cinema. The gathering was not merely about celebrating a new film; it became a collective homage to legacy, sacrifice, and the enduring power of storytelling—both cinematic and national.
What elevated the Ikkis screening beyond the usual industry affair was its layered significance. The film marks the final on-screen appearance of Dharmendra, one of Indian cinema’s most revered icons. As Bollywood’s biggest stars, veteran legends, and emerging talents came together under one roof, the evening unfolded as a poignant intersection of memory, patriotism, and generational continuity.
A Film That Carries History on Its Shoulders
Ikkis is not just another war film. Directed by Sriram Raghavan—known for his meticulous storytelling and atmospheric narratives—the film explores courage, sacrifice, and the unseen emotional toll of war. Set against the backdrop of India’s military history, Ikkis pays tribute to real-life war heroes while weaving a narrative that balances realism with cinematic sensitivity.
The film stars Agastya Nanda in a pivotal role, signaling the rise of a new generation of actors stepping into stories rooted deeply in national identity. Yet, what makes Ikkis extraordinary is its symbolic weight as Dharmendra’s final cinematic appearance. For an actor whose career spans over six decades, the film stands as a quiet yet powerful farewell—one that resonates deeply with audiences and colleagues alike.
The screening brought together an impressive mix of veteran icons and contemporary stars. Celebrities including Jeetendra, Tabu, Vijay Varma, Randeep Hooda, Tiger Shroff, Arjun Kapoor, Jaya Prada, and Ameesha Patel graced the red carpet. Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah attended with their son Vivaan Shah, while Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia Deshmukh added warmth to the gathering. Designers and industry insiders such as Manish Malhotra were also present, highlighting the film’s widespread support across generations of Bollywood.
A separate screening held earlier in New Delhi emphasised Ikkis’s national importance, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and senior military officials attending alongside army personnel and families of real-life war heroes. Speaking at the event, Agastya Nanda described the film as a tribute to India’s armed forces and their sacrifices. With its January 1, 2026 theatrical release approaching, Ikkis stands as both a patriotic cinematic experience and an emotional farewell to a cinema legend, generating strong anticipation nationwide.
The Deol Family: Grief, Pride, and Legacy
The presence of the Deol family at the screening was among the most emotionally stirring aspects of the evening. Dharmendra’s sons, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, arrived together, embodying both personal loss and professional pride.
Sunny Deol, himself synonymous with patriotic cinema, was seen standing silently beside his father’s photograph displayed at the venue. The image—father and son separated by time but united by legacy—became one of the most evocative visuals of the night. Known for his intense screen persona, Sunny’s quiet composure spoke volumes about the emotional weight of the occasion.
Bobby Deol, who has experienced a powerful resurgence in his career over the past few years, was reportedly overwhelmed after watching his late father’s performance. Sources from the screening shared that Bobby remained seated long after the credits rolled, visibly emotional as he absorbed the gravity of seeing Dharmendra on screen for the final time.
Abhay Deol, Dharmendra’s nephew and a filmmaker known for unconventional choices, was also in attendance. His presence symbolized the continuation of the Deol legacy—not just as mainstream stars but as artists committed to meaningful cinema.
Salman Khan’s Silent Tribute to a Mentor and Friend
Among the many stars present, Salman Khan’s appearance carried special significance. A longtime friend and admirer of Dharmendra, Salman has often spoken about the veteran actor’s influence on his life and career. At the Ikkis screening, Salman was seen pausing beside Dharmendra’s poster, visibly moved, before offering a quiet moment of respect.
In an industry often dominated by spectacle, Salman’s understated tribute stood out. There were no speeches or grand gestures—just a moment of reflection that captured the deep bonds formed behind the scenes of Indian cinema. For many onlookers, it was a reminder that Bollywood’s relationships often extend far beyond box-office numbers and professional collaborations.
Rekha’s Graceful Gesture That Stole Hearts
If there was one moment that blended nostalgia, warmth, and cinematic poetry, it was Rekha’s appearance at the screening. The legendary actress, known for her timeless elegance and emotional expressiveness, brought a unique energy to the evening.
In a gesture that quickly became one of the most talked-about highlights of the event, Rekha was seen blowing a kiss toward Agastya Nanda’s poster. The act was simple yet profoundly symbolic—a blessing from one era of cinema to the next. For Agastya, whose grandfather Amitabh Bachchan once shared an iconic on-screen partnership with Rekha, the moment carried an added layer of historical resonance.
Rekha’s presence reinforced the idea that Ikkis is not just a film but a bridge between generations—connecting the golden age of Hindi cinema with its evolving present.
A Confluence of Icons and Contemporary Stars
The red carpet at the Ikkis screening presented a rare and compelling blend of Bollywood’s past, present, and future. Veteran stars like Jeetendra, Jaya Prada, and Naseeruddin Shah arrived alongside contemporary actors who represent the industry’s evolving landscape.
Jeetendra, a stalwart of Hindi cinema, was greeted warmly by colleagues and fans alike. His presence added gravitas to the event, reinforcing the sense that Ikkis is being embraced as a culturally significant film rather than a routine release.
Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah attended with their son Vivaan Shah, turning the evening into a subtle celebration of artistic lineage. Their presence echoed the film’s central theme of legacy—how values, stories, and courage are passed down through generations.
Actors such as Tabu, Vijay Varma, Randeep Hooda, Tiger Shroff, Arjun Kapoor, Ameesha Patel, Fardeen Khan, and Fatima Sana Shaikh added contemporary flair to the gathering. Designers and industry stalwarts like Manish Malhotra further elevated the event’s profile, underscoring the film’s wide-reaching support within the fraternity.
Riteish Deshmukh and Genelia Deshmukh were also spotted at the screening, representing a generation of actors who have successfully balanced mainstream appeal with socially resonant storytelling.
A National Moment Beyond Mumbai
While the Mumbai screening was rich with emotion and star power, Ikkis had already made headlines with a separate and equally significant screening held earlier in New Delhi. That event underscored the film’s national importance, drawing attendees from beyond the film industry.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of the Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, and Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi were present alongside army personnel and families of real-life war heroes portrayed in the film. Their attendance positioned Ikkis as more than a cinematic release—it became a national tribute.
Speaking at the Delhi screening, Agastya Nanda highlighted the film’s intention to honor India’s armed forces and acknowledge the immense sacrifices made by soldiers and their families. His words resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom have lived the realities depicted on screen.
Sriram Raghavan’s Quietly Powerful Direction
Director Sriram Raghavan’s involvement in Ikkis has generated significant anticipation among cinephiles. Known for his precision, restraint, and respect for storytelling, Raghavan has approached the war genre with sensitivity rather than spectacle.
Instead of glorifying conflict, Ikkis reportedly focuses on the human cost of war—the emotional landscapes of soldiers, their families, and the nation they protect. This approach aligns seamlessly with Dharmendra’s final role, offering the veteran actor a dignified, meaningful farewell rather than a flamboyant send-off.
The Emotional Core of the Evening
What made the Ikkis screening unforgettable was its emotional duality. On one hand, it celebrated the promise of new talent, a powerful narrative, and a major cinematic release. On the other, it served as a collective farewell to a legend whose contributions shaped generations of Indian cinema.
For many attendees, the screening was deeply personal. Tears were shed, memories were shared, and silent moments spoke louder than applause. In an industry often criticized for its fleeting loyalties, the evening stood as a testament to enduring respect and shared history.
Anticipation Builds Ahead of January 1, 2026 Release
With its theatrical release scheduled for January 1, 2026, Ikkis is poised to open the year on a powerful note. The film’s blend of patriotic storytelling, emotional depth, and historical significance positions it as a strong contender for both critical acclaim and audience engagement.
Beyond box-office expectations, Ikkis arrives at a time when audiences are increasingly seeking meaningful cinema—stories that resonate beyond entertainment and speak to collective identity.
A Film That Represents More Than Cinema
In many ways, Ikkis represents a moment of convergence. It brings together generations of actors, bridges the gap between commercial cinema and national storytelling, and honors a legacy that extends far beyond the screen.
The December 29 screening was not just an industry event—it was a reminder of cinema’s power to unite, heal, and remember. As Bollywood’s biggest names stood shoulder to shoulder, the message was clear: stories matter, legacies endure, and some films arrive not just to entertain, but to be remembered.
As audiences await Ikkis in theaters this January, the emotional echoes of that star-studded evening continue to linger—promising a cinematic experience rooted in respect, remembrance, and resilience.
