The highly anticipated war film Ikkis, starring Agastya Nanda and the late Dharmendra, has been delayed for the third time. The theatrical release is now planned for January 1, 2026, instead of the originally planned release date of December 25, 2025.
Strategic change to avoid box office clashes
Ikkis was set to release on Christmas Day but the makers decided to change the release date to bypass a direct clash at the box office with other major films releasing around the same time. This move comes in the middle of robust performance and continued “buzz” around Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar, as well as competition from other big theatrical releases during Christmas.
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Film details and trailer update
Ikkis is directed by Sriram Raghavan. The film is based on the true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who is India’s youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. The makers have assured that the film’s final trailer will be revealed in theatres over the weekend, which is adding to the anticipation for the New Year launch.
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The makers of ‘Ikkis’ announced on X, “This new year, gift yourself courage. Final #Ikkis trailer drops this weekend in theatres.”A new chapter unfolds in legendary director Sriram Raghavan’s first war film. The true story of India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra Awardee, Second Lt. Arun Khetarpal. Some heroes die young. Experience courage in cinemas #Ikkis releasing on 1st January 2026.
See Post| “This new year, gift yourself courage. Final #Ikkis trailer drops this weekend in theatres.”
Ikkis sidesteps the crowded Christmas box office period by moving to January 1, 2026. The film positions itself for a clearer theatrical window, which would potentially ensure better screen allocation and showtimes. This obeys a trend in Bollywood where producers move release dates to give their films stronger visibility and fewer competitors.
