Amitabh Bachchan’s Proud Message as Agastya Debuts in Ikkis

Veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan expressed immense pride and heartfelt emotion for his grandson Agastya Nanda, who is set to make his big-screen debut with the much-anticipated war drama Ikkis. The film, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sriram Raghavan and produced by Maddock Films, unveiled its trailer earlier today, earning widespread praise from audiences and the film fraternity alike.

Amitabh Bachchan’s Emotional Note

Soon after the trailer’s release, Amitabh Bachchan took to X (formerly Twitter) to share a deeply personal message reflecting both nostalgia and pride. The legendary actor reminisced about Agastya’s early years and expressed joy over his grandson’s cinematic journey.

“Agastya! I held you in my hands as soon as you were born... a few months later, I held you again in my hands and your soft fingers reached out to play with my beard... TODAY you play in theatres all over the world... You are SPECIAL... all my prayers and blessings to you... May you ever bring glory to your work and the greatest PRIDE for the family.”

The emotional message resonated with fans, who flooded social media with congratulatory posts for both Agastya and his grandfather. Many hailed the note as one of the most touching tributes from a grandparent to a debutant actor.

Family Support and Pride

Agastya’s father, industrialist Nikhil Nanda, also expressed his emotions on social media. Taking to Facebook, he wrote,

“Some moments make you proud beyond words. Watching the trailer of Ikkis, I felt immense pride — as a father and as an Indian. Agastya’s portrayal of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal (PVC) is a moving tribute to courage and our nation’s spirit. Wishing Agastya, Sriram Raghavan, and the Ikkis team every success in sharing this inspiring story.”

The messages from both Amitabh Bachchan and Nikhil Nanda highlight the strong familial support behind Agastya as he steps into the film industry. The warmth and pride in their words reflect a shared sentiment across the Bachchan and Nanda families.

Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis tells the inspiring real-life story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, a young Indian Army officer who displayed extraordinary courage during the Indo-Pak war of 1971.

Arun Khetarpal, posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, remains a symbol of bravery and patriotism. He led his tank regiment during the fierce Battle of Basantar, continuing to fight even after being gravely injured. At just 21, his valor and sacrifice became a legend in India’s military history.

Agastya Nanda takes on this challenging role, marking his first appearance on the big screen after his digital debut in The Archies. The film’s trailer gives audiences a glimpse of Agastya’s transformation — portraying both the vulnerability and the heroism of a young soldier destined for greatness.

The Cast and Crew

Ikkis features an impressive ensemble cast alongside Agastya Nanda, including Dharmendra and Jaideep Ahlawat, both known for their commanding screen presence. The film is backed by Maddock Films, a banner recognized for producing innovative and emotionally resonant stories.

Sriram Raghavan, celebrated for his storytelling in acclaimed thrillers such as Andhadhun and Badlapur, brings his precision and creative depth to this war biopic. His direction promises a blend of gripping realism, intense emotion, and historical authenticity. The filmmaker’s meticulous attention to detail and layered narratives make Ikkis one of the most anticipated films of 2025.

Strong Response to the Trailer

The trailer of Ikkis has generated strong buzz across social media platforms, with audiences praising its stirring visuals, powerful dialogues, and emotional depth. Critics have noted that Agastya’s portrayal of Arun Khetarpal appears both earnest and mature, signaling a promising start to his acting career.

Many have also lauded the film’s cinematography and production design, which authentically capture the 1971 battlefield and evoke the patriotic spirit of the era. The music and background score add to the emotional intensity, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

A Promising Debut for Agastya Nanda

Agastya Nanda, the grandson of Amitabh and Jaya Bachchan and great-grandson of legendary filmmaker Raj Kapoor, represents the next generation of one of India’s most illustrious film families. However, Ikkis is not merely about carrying forward a legacy — it’s about carving an individual identity through performance and sincerity.

His debut project, The Archies, showcased his youthful energy and screen charm, but Ikkis marks a distinct shift, demanding emotional depth and dramatic intensity. Industry insiders believe this role could firmly establish Agastya as one of the most promising newcomers of his generation.

Ikkis is scheduled for a theatrical release in December 2025. The timing of the release, during the festive season, is expected to attract large audiences and amplify its patriotic appeal. The combination of an inspiring true story, stellar cast, and Raghavan’s acclaimed direction positions the film as a major cinematic event for the coming year.

As Agastya Nanda steps into the spotlight, Amitabh Bachchan’s heartfelt words capture the emotional essence of this milestone — a moment where legacy, love, and talent come together in a story rooted in national pride and family celebration.