Karan Johar calls ‘Ikkis’ ‘love letter to peace’; praises Dharmendra, Agastya Nanda and Jaideep Ahlawat’s emotional performances |

Karan Johar raved about ‘Ikkis’ on social media post its Jan 1 release. He called it a “love letter to peace,” praising debutant Agastya Nanda, Dharmendra’s final poignant role, Jaideep Ahlawat’s power, and Sriram Raghavan’s vision. Film shifted from Dec 25 to avoid clashes. “Watch this gem!”.

Filmmaker Karan Johar became a big fan of ‘Ikkis’ just days after its cinema release on January 1, 2026. On January 5, he posted a touching, detailed review on social media, heaping praises on the protagonist, Agastya Nanda and the supporting cast featuring the late veteran actor Dharmendra and Jaideep Ahlawat.

Karan Johar reviews ‘Ikkis’

Sharing his thoughts on his social media handle, Johar wrote, “IKKIS is a love letter to peace… an honestly and earnestly told story about the absolute redundancy of war….i was so moved by so many moments of the film … it silently screams … and that’s where Sriram Raghavan gets it so right…” Johar particularly praised the memorable acting that touched him deeply, first spotlighting Dharmendra, whose final on-screen role comes in ‘Ikkis’. Johar said, “I was moist eyed everytime Dharamji was on screen…. He has the most towering screen presence and yet can be so gentle and your heart goes out to his immensely dignified portrayal of a grieving father ….”

Karan Johar praises Jaidee Ahlawat

Johar praised Jaideep Ahlawat as an actor who always shines with control and power. He wrote, “@jaideepahlawat proves time and again what an outstanding force of nature he is…he is ROCK SOLID!!” Much of Johar’s review centered on Agastya Nanda, debuting on the big screen in ‘Ikkis’ after ‘The Archies’. In the role of 21-year-old Arun Khetarpal, Agastya earned heartfelt support from the director.

Karan Johar praises Agastya Nanda

Johar further wrote, “Agastya Nanda is OUTSTANDING as the 21 year old Arun Khetarpal… his endearing innocence, silent resolve and eventual climax break out proves his metal as an artist… was so proud and excited to see him emerge as such a sincere and solid actor… can’t wait to see his journey unfold…”Johar praised this fresh vision and thanked the producers too, “Kudos to Dinoo and @maddockfilms for supporting this brave and new take on a war film…. Please go watch this gem of a true story….#ikkis.”

Release date of ‘Ikkis’

‘Ikkis’ was first set for December 25, 2025, but moved to January 1, 2026. This decision was taken to avoid clash with the Ranveer Singh starrer ‘Dhurandhar’ and ‘Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri,’ bankrolled by Dharma Productions.