As 2026 begins on a patriotic note with Ikkis, details about the film’s censor process have emerged. The Agastya Nanda starrer tells the emotional story of Arun Khetarpal, who at just 21 became the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra for his bravery during the 1971 India Pakistan war. Originally scheduled for December 25, the film was pushed to January 1, 2026. The makers completed the censor process on time with the Christmas release in mind.
According to exclusive information, the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) asked for several modifications before passing the film. Here’s what happened during the certification process.
Opening Disclaimer And Acknowledgments Modified
To begin with, the CBFC asked the makers to suitably modify the opening disclaimer. They were instructed to include acknowledgment for Poona Horse Regiment, Colonel Hanuth Singh, and the tank crew. The same information was also to be communicated through a voiceover.
This was followed by photographs of warriors and an introductory voiceover about Arun’s tank crew. These additions were meant to provide proper context and recognition to the real heroes and units involved in the 1971 war.
End Credits Modified With Defense Expert Suggestions
In the end credits, the makers were asked to add text with a voiceover. They also suitably modified the credits and added a full iconic image of a Lieutenant General as per the suggestion of a defense expert.
Due to the genre and realism of the subject, the makers submitted a consent letter from a member of the Khetarpal family. They also provided proper documents for scenes based on true events. This documentation was necessary to authenticate the portrayal of real incidents.
Tank Name And India Pakistan Dialogue Deleted
Now coming to the actual cuts made to the film. In the second half, the name of a tank was asked to be deleted. This was likely done for security or sensitivity reasons.
Most significantly, a 15 second dialogue about India Pakistan relations was asked to be deleted. The CBFC members felt this particular exchange needed to be removed, though the exact nature of the dialogue has not been disclosed. Given the sensitive nature of bilateral relations, the board likely felt it was prudent to avoid any potentially controversial statements.
Alcohol Branding And Anti Smoking Compliance
The CBFC members also asked the makers to blur the alcohol brand name visible in the film. Additionally, they were required to add anti smoking static warnings. These are standard requirements that apply to most films to comply with advertising and public health guidelines.
Film Receives U/A 13 Plus Certificate
Once all these changes were implemented, Ikkis was passed with a U/A 13+ certificate on December 15, 2025. The length of the film, as mentioned on the censor certificate, is 147.15 minutes. In other words, Ikkis is 2 hours, 27 minutes, and 15 seconds long.
The U/A 13+ certification means that parental guidance is recommended for children below 13 years of age. This rating is appropriate given the war drama nature of the film.
About Ikkis
Ikkis is directed by Sriram Raghavan and produced by Dinesh Vijan’s Maddock Films. The film stars Agastya Nanda in the lead role as Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, alongside Jaideep Ahlawat, newcomer Simar Bhatia, and the late Dharmendra in his final role. The patriotic war drama tells the story of India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee who made the supreme sacrifice at 21 during the 1971 war. The film received U/A 13+ certificate on December 15 with a runtime of 147 minutes 15 seconds. It is set to release in theaters on January 1, 2026.
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