As Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar continues its sensational run at the box office, the makers of Sriram Raghavan’s much-anticipated film Ikkis have decided to postpone its release. Originally scheduled to hit theatres on December 25, Ikkis will now release on January 1, 2026, steering clear of the crowded Christmas weekend and capitalising on the New Year holiday period.
The Ranveer Singh-led Dhurandhar has been wreaking havoc at the box office, recently registering the biggest second weekend ever for a Hindi film. With its momentum showing no signs of slowing down, trade circles believe the decision to delay Ikkis is a strategic move rather than a setback.
Ikkis Gets a New Release Date
On Wednesday, production house Maddock Films unveiled a new poster announcing the revised release date. Sharing the update on social media, the makers wrote:
“This New Year, gift yourself courage. The final Ikkis trailer drops this weekend in theatres. A new chapter unfolds in legendary director Sriram Raghavan’s first war film — the true story of India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee, Second Lt Arun Khetarpal. Some heroes die young.”
With the shift to January 1, Ikkis also avoids a direct box-office clash with Karan Johar-backed Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri, starring Kartik Aaryan and Ananya Panday, which is slated for a Christmas release.
Trade Experts Back the Decision
Trade analyst Taran Adarsh lauded the move, pointing out that similar postponements have paid off in the past.
“The postponement of Hindi Medium and Chhaava worked to their advantage, with both eventually enjoying a clear run. Dinesh Vijan has done it for the third time,” Adarsh wrote on X.
He added that Dhurandhar continues to dominate screens, while Hollywood giant Avatar is also set for a massive India release on December 19, 2025.
“Neither film is likely to surrender screens or prime shows during the Christmas week. Shifting Ikkis to January 1, 2026, makes perfect business sense. As a solo release, the film is assured strong showcasing at premium properties,” he said.
About Ikkis
Directed by Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis is a biographical war drama based on the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee. The film chronicles the heroism displayed during the Battle of Basantar in the 1971 India–Pakistan War.
The film marks the theatrical debut of Agastya Nanda, grandson of Amitabh Bachchan, and features an ensemble cast including Jaideep Ahlawat, Simar Bhatia, and veteran actor Dharmendra, in what is being billed as his final on-screen appearance.
With its emotionally charged subject and a clear New Year release window, Ikkis is now poised for a focused and potentially stronger box-office run.