Ikkis brings to life one of the most heroic chapters of Indian military history — the Battle of Basantar during the 1971 India–Pakistan War. Anchored in real events and real people, the film features an ensemble cast portraying real-life characters.

From Agastya Nanda to Dharmendra: 5 actors playing real-life characters in Ikkis

Here’s a look at the real characters played by the main cast of Ikkis – Agastya Nanda, Dharmendra, Jaideep Ahlawat, Vivaan Shah and Sikander Kher.

Agastya Nanda as Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal

From Agastya Nanda to Dharmendra: 5 actors playing real-life characters in Ikkis 5 : Bollywood News - Bollywood Hungama

Agastya Nanda essays the role of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra. A 21-year-old tank officer from the Poona Horse regiment, Khetarpal displayed extraordinary bravery during the Battle of Basantar. Despite being gravely wounded, he refused to abandon his tank and continued fighting enemy armour until his last breath. His unwavering resolve and supreme sacrifice form the emotional and narrative core of Ikkis.

Dharmendra as Brigadier Madan Lal Khetarpal

From Agastya Nanda to Dharmendra: 5 actors playing real-life characters in Ikkis 5 : Bollywood News - Bollywood Hungama

Veteran actor Dharmendra portrays Brigadier Madan Lal Khetarpal, the father of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. He goes through the pain of losing his son at a young age of 21. But at the same time, he is also proud of the sacrifice Arun made for the country. This happens to be Dharmendra’s last on screen appearance. This has added to the emotional appeal of the film.

Jaideep Ahlawat as Brigadier Jaan Mohammad Nisar

Jaideep Ahlawat steps into the role of the Brigadier Jaan Mohammad Nisar from Pakistan. His character develops a bond with that of Brigadier Madal Lal Khetarpal from India, whose character is essayed by Dharmendra.

Vivaan Shah as Captain Vijender Malhotra

Vivaan Shah plays Captain Vijender Malhotra, a young but sharp-minded officer responsible for reconnaissance and coordination between infantry and armoured units. He plays the colleague of Arun Khetarpal. Malhotra fought the 1971 India-Pakistan war along with Khetarpal. He was also fighting from a tank, just like Khetarpal.

Sikander Kher as Sagat Singh

Sikander Kher portrays RIS Sagat Singh, a senior field officer who acts as the operational backbone of the regiment. He plays the experienced senior to Arun Khetarpal. Known for his firm discipline and fierce loyalty to his men, his leadership under fire ensures cohesion amid chaos.

Also Read: Ikkis: The historic Battle of Basantar is portrayed in the Agastya Nanda and Dharmendra starrer