Not the film, but the disclaimer: Why Ikkis is trending online
Two Hindi films hit theatres on January 1, setting up an unusual box office conversation — but it isn’t just numbers that have drawn attention. While Ikkis, starring Dharmendra, Agastya Nanda and Simar Bhatia, made its theatrical debut, Dhurandhar, headlined by Ranveer Singh and Akshaye Khanna, returned to cinemas with a revised version after already enjoying a successful run.
Though the two films tell very different stories, social media users were quick to compare them, noting a common thread of patriotism, the Indian Army and India’s conflict with Pakistan. Amid these discussions, a disclaimer shown at the beginning of Ikkis has gone viral, sparking debate online.
The disclaimer makes a sharp political assertion, stating that the humane conduct of a Pakistani brigadier depicted in the film was “only an exceptional incident.” It goes on to claim that Pakistan, as a neighbouring country, is “not trustworthy” and accuses its armed forces of behaving “cruelly and inhumanely” with Indian soldiers and civilians during both wartime and peace.
The disclaimer further alleges repeated violations of the Geneva Convention by Pakistani forces and warns viewers to remain alert in light of what it describes as Pakistan-sponsored terrorist activities. Screenshots of the message have been widely shared on social media, drawing mixed reactions, from praise by some for its blunt tone to criticism by others who see it as politically charged.
At the box office, Ikkis has collected ₹20.15 crore in its first four days.
Directed by Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis is based on the true story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee. Set during the 1971 Indo-Pak war, the film chronicles the bravery and sacrifice of the officer, who was martyred at the age of 21 during the Battle of Basantar.
Meanwhile, Dhurandhar continues its strong theatrical run, having earned ₹772.25 crore at the domestic box office in 31 days, posing stiff competition to the new release.