Actor Vivaan Shah recently took to social media to reflect on one of the most emotionally significant roles of his career. The actor shared a striking photograph of himself in the uniformed look of Capt. Vijendra Malhotra, a character he portrayed in the recently released biographical war drama Ikkis, starring Agastya Nanda in the lead.

The film, which is based on true events from the 1971 India–Pakistan War, holds special importance for Vivaan, who used the occasion to honour the real-life army officer he essayed on screen. Along with the photo, Vivaan penned a heartfelt note expressing gratitude to the filmmakers, his co-actors, and the family of Capt. Malhotra for trusting him with the role.

Vivaan Shah pays heartfelt tribute to real-life hero he portrayed in Ikkis; calls it one of his most meaningful roles

He wrote, “Capt. Vijendra Malhotra alias Mallu… Thank you Sriram Sir, Aggi, and @binnypadda sir for helping me play this role, and @reshmamerchant and @raunaqroy for your blessings and ashirvaad and acceptance of me in the role of your father… This has been one of the greatest experiences ever!”

In his post, Vivaan acknowledged director Sriram Raghavan, lead actor Agastya Nanda, and producer Binny Padda for their guidance and support throughout the journey. He also extended special thanks to Reshma Merchant—noted fashion designer and wife of Sulaiman Merchant—and Raunaq Roy, wife of Hungama CEO Neeraj Roy, who are daughters of Capt. Vijendra Malhotra. Their acceptance and blessings, Vivaan noted, made the portrayal deeply personal and emotionally fulfilling.

For the unversed, Ikkis is a biographical war drama co-written and directed by Sriram Raghavan and co-produced by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films, along with Binny Padda, Sharada Karki Jalota and Poonam Shivdasani. The film marks Agastya Nanda’s theatrical debut and also features Dharmendra and Asrani in their final film roles, alongside Jaideep Ahlawat and Simar Bhatia.

The film chronicles the life of Arun Khetarpal, the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, and is centred around the Battle of Basantar. The title refers to the age at which Khetarpal attained martyrdom. Initially slated for a December 25, 2025 release, the film eventually hit theatres on January 1, 2026.

Vivaan Shah’s tribute has struck a chord with audiences, highlighting the emotional responsibility and pride that comes with portraying real-life heroes on screen.

Also Read: Jaideep Ahlawat on the response to Ikkis, “There are very few stories that deal with human emotions”