New Delhi: Agastya Nanda’s venture into Bollywood is set to reach new heights as he steps into a role of substantial historical significance in Sriram Raghavan’s forthcoming biopic “Ikkis,” which chronicles the life of Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military decoration for valor. Following his impressive entry into the film industry with The Archies, Agastya is eagerly anticipating the challenge of portraying a national hero and the privilege of working alongside eminent Indian cinema figures Dharmendra and Jaideep Ahlawat.
During an interview with Film Companion, Agastya discussed the range of emotions he experienced upon joining the esteemed cast, focusing on the respect and warmth extended to him by his accomplished co-stars. These interactions solidified a positive and encouraging atmosphere on the set of ‘Ikkis,’ according to the young actor.
Agastya particularly recounted the kindness and excitement he witnessed at Jaideep Ahlawat’s look test. Despite the pressure of performing with industry stalwarts, Agastya expressed a profound sense of honor, emboldened by the support he received from them. He emphasized his eagerness to absorb as much as possible from his experiences with these seasoned professionals and the entire ‘Ikkis’ team.
Playing Arun Khetarpal is not only a major role for Agastya’s burgeoning career but also an opportunity to delve into a significant chapter of India’s military history. Khetarpal’s valor and sacrifice as a 21-year-old Second Lieutenant during the Indo-Pak War of 1971 have inspired generations.
This biopic presents a challenging role for young Agastya, who finds himself navigating through a complex landscape of emotional highs and lows that come with portraying a war hero whose life story is ingrained in the national psyche. As Agastya embarks on this journey, the film is expected to draw attention not just for its compelling narrative but also for its nuanced depiction of heroism and patriotism.
The participation of Dharmendra and Jaideep Ahlawat adds a gravitas to the production that resonates with audiences familiar with their extensive work. Dharmendra, an icon of Indian cinema, is celebrated for his diverse body of work spanning decades, while Jaideep Ahlawat has recently garnered critical acclaim for his captivating performances in digital series and films.
Agastya’s role as Arun Khetarpal promises to be a significant test of his acting craft, requiring a delicate balance between authentic portrayal and respectful tribute. The film aims to forge a connection with viewers by highlighting personal moments within a historical context.
Under the direction of Sriram Raghavan, known for his adept storytelling and attention to detail, ‘Ikkis’ has the potential to be a seminal film in the war drama genre. Raghavan’s direction will likely guide Agastya in delivering a performance that honors the memory of Arun Khetarpal and provides audiences with a detailed look at the life of a war hero.
In his discussion, Agastya emphasized the positivity and anticipation he feels about this project, describing it as the coming together of hard work, respect for one’s craft, and a mutual eagerness among the cast and crew to tell a story of great national importance. ‘Ikkis’ is not just a platform for Agastya to showcase his skills but also a testament to the collaborative spirit and dedication prevalent in the field of Indian cinema.
The film industry and audiences alike are keenly waiting to see how Agastya, under the mentorship of Sriram Raghavan and alongside powerful performances by Dharmendra and Jaideep Ahlawat, will bring the persona of Arun Khetarpal alive on the silver screen. As ‘Ikkis’ progresses through production, it promises to be an artistic tribute to a real-life legend and another stepping stone in the career of Agastya Nanda.
