Box Office: The beginning of 2026 has brought an emotional and professional high point for Indian cinema, as a new war biopic made a confident entry at the box office while also marking a special milestone for a legendary film family. The film Ikkis has not only attracted strong audience attention in its opening days but has also become a deeply personal moment for one of the most respected figures in the industry, who publicly expressed pride and joy over his grandson’s performance.
The film opened the year on a positive commercial note, registering impressive numbers within its first four days of release. The makers shared official box office figures indicating that the film collected a total of Rs 22.05 crore in India during this initial period. Such an opening is considered encouraging for a content-driven war biopic, especially at a time when audience preferences are rapidly evolving.
On its first day, the film earned Rs 7.28 crore, reflecting curiosity and anticipation among moviegoers. The second day saw collections of Rs 4.02 crore, maintaining stability. Over the weekend, momentum increased further, with Rs 5.05 crore on Day 3 and Rs 5.70 crore on Day 4. This upward trend highlighted positive word of mouth and growing interest in the film’s subject and performances.
Adding to the buzz surrounding the film was a heartfelt message shared by Amitabh Bachchan on social media. The veteran actor reposted the box office figures and expressed his excitement with a short yet enthusiastic message for his grandson. His words reflected both pride and encouragement, capturing the emotional significance of seeing the next generation step confidently into the film industry.
For fans, this public acknowledgment carried special meaning, as it offered a rare glimpse into the personal side of a figure known for his dignified public persona and decades-long contribution to cinema.
Directed by Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis is a war biopic inspired by the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. The film narrates the courage, sacrifice, and determination of one of India’s youngest recipients of the Param Vir Chakra. Known for his distinctive storytelling style, the director brings a balance of emotional depth and realism to the narrative.
The film also features a strong supporting cast, including Jaideep Ahlawat, Suhasini Mulay, Sikander Kher, and Rahul Dev, each adding gravitas to the storyline. Released on January 1, 2026, the film positioned itself as both a patriotic tribute and a serious cinematic experience.
Beyond the numbers and reviews, what truly resonated with audiences was a deeply emotional blog post written by Amitabh Bachchan. In it, he revisited memories from the day his grandson was born to the present moment of watching him on the big screen. He recalled rushing to the hospital, holding the newborn in his arms, and witnessing the early years of his growth with affection and wonder.
These reflections created a powerful emotional arc, connecting personal family memories with a professional achievement. The post resonated with readers who appreciated the honesty and warmth behind the words, making the moment relatable beyond the world of cinema.
In his note, Bachchan went beyond emotional pride and offered a sincere assessment of his grandson’s work. He described the performance as honest and absorbing, emphasizing that his appreciation came not from a grandfather’s bias but from the perspective of a seasoned viewer of cinema. According to him, whenever Agastya appeared on screen, it was difficult to look away.
Such praise holds weight, given Bachchan’s long career and critical eye. He also appreciated the film’s overall execution, including its writing and direction, stating that the experience left him overwhelmed with quiet pride and emotion by the end.
With a solid box office opening, positive audience response, and strong endorsements from within and outside the industry, Ikkis appears well-positioned for a steady run. More importantly, the film marks a promising chapter for Agastya Nanda, whose journey is being closely watched by both critics and fans.
As the film continues its theatrical run, it stands as a blend of national history, cinematic craft, and a personal legacy unfolding on screen. The coming weeks will reveal how the film sustains its momentum, but its opening chapter has already made a lasting impression.
