Ikkis Release Date: The box office wave created by Dhurandhar is now forcing Bollywood to rethink its calendar. Ranveer Singh’s spy thriller is not just running strong. It is dominating screens across the country. With packed theatres and record numbers in its second weekend, the film has left little breathing room for new releases. One of the latest casualties of this box office storm is Ikkis.
Directed by Sriram Raghavan and backed by Maddock Films, the war drama was originally slated to release on December 25. The makers have now officially postponed the film, choosing to avoid a direct clash during a crowded holiday window.
The decision carries emotional weight as well. Ikkis features Dharmendra in what is being seen as his final screen appearance. Rather than risk a compromised release, the team has opted for a safer date.
Dharmendra’s Ikkis Gets New Release Date
Maddock Films announced on Wednesday that Ikkis will now release on January 1, 2026. The update came with a new poster that highlighted the film’s patriotic and emotional tone. The makers positioned it as a powerful New Year release and confirmed that the final trailer will begin playing in theatres this weekend.
They also underlined the film’s importance by pointing out that it marks Sriram Raghavan’s first war drama. The story is based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee. His courage during the 1971 Indo-Pak War remains a source of inspiration even today.
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh backed the move and called it a smart decision. He noted that similar postponements in the past had worked in favour of films. According to him, Dhurandhar is still going strong and is unlikely to vacate screens anytime soon. He also highlighted that the upcoming Avatar release will take up a massive number of screens across India.
Adarsh further explained that a Christmas release would have been risky. Big films rarely give up prime shows during that period. By shifting to January 1, Ikkis now becomes a solo release. This ensures better screen allocation and stronger show timings at major cinema chains.
Reddit REACTS To The Delay
The announcement sparked an intense debate online, especially on Reddit. Many users shared blunt and divided opinions on the move.
Read some online comments below
“25 ko aao ya 1 ko , honi toh flop hi han bus 1 jan ko kam flop hogi.”
“Thats a very bad date to release a movie. 25th was better.”
“New year is the time, when people generally celebrate by partying and family get togethers. In my opinion, going for a movie is very rare.”
“Should have postponed to Republic Day to cash on the patriotism factor.”
“They are scared of Dhurandhar.”
“As expected. Dinesh Vijan ka pattern hai.”
Directed by Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis marks a shift from his signature thrillers to a full-fledged war drama. The film tells the true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who was just 21 when he laid down his life during the Battle of Basantar in the 1971 war.
The narrative follows his journey from a young cadet to a fearless officer. Despite severe injuries and a burning tank, he refused to retreat. His bravery became one of the most heroic chapters in Indian military history.
Agastya Nanda plays the lead role in his theatrical debut. The cast also includes Jaideep Ahlawat and Simar Bhatia. Dharmendra appears as Khetarpal’s father, making the film especially significant for audiences.
