If you were one of the people who trolled Agastya Nanda after The Archies, get ready to eat your words. Sriram Raghavan’s war-drama Ikkis premiered last night in Mumbai, and the verdict is unanimous: Agastya Nanda has arrived, and how!
Stepping into the shoes of the youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient, Arun Khetarpal, Agastya has delivered a performance so raw, honest, and heartbreaking that critics are calling it a "star-making turn."
The Redemption Arc
Let’s be real—Agastya had a rough start. His debut was met with memes and criticism about "acting capabilities." But in Ikkis, he is unrecognizable. Gone is the polished, urban vibe. In its place is the grit, innocence, and fiery determination of a 21-year-old soldier facing death. Early reviews from the premiere are glowing. Casting director Mukesh Chhabra tweeted, "Agastya's innocence and sincerity truly shine. If you doubted him, watch this." Even the notoriously hard-to-please film critics are admitting that Sriram Raghavan has extracted a diamond from the rough.
Dharmendra’s Tear-Jerking Finale
But Ikkis isn't just about Agastya. It marks the final on-screen appearance of the legendary Dharmendra, who plays Arun Khetarpal’s father. Scenes between Agastya and Dharmendra are reportedly leaving audiences sobbing. Seeing the late legend on screen for the last time, delivering a performance full of grace and grief, is a moment Indian cinema will never forget. As one reviewer put it, "Dharam Paaji says goodbye with a masterclass."
The Surprise Package: Jaideep Ahlawat
And then there is Jaideep Ahlawat. While we are used to seeing him play dark, brooding characters, reports suggest his role in Ikkis is a total surprise. He plays a key mentor figure, and his chemistry with Agastya is the backbone of the film's second half.
Verdict?
Ikkis releases on January 1, 2026, and it looks like Bollywood is starting the new year with a bang. Agastya Nanda has proven that he isn't just Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson; he is an actor who can carry a war epic on his shoulders.
Welcome to the movies, Agastya. The second innings has truly begun!
