The loss of a legend is never just a headline; it’s a seismic shift in the cultural landscape. For actor Jaideep Ahlawat, that reality hit home with a profound sense of personal and professional emptiness. In a recent exclusive, Ahlawat spoke candidly about his experience working with the iconic Dharmendra on the highly anticipated film Ikkis, and the palpable void he feels in the veteran actor’s absence.
“I felt a void,” Ahlawat confessed, reflecting on the promotional journey for a film that was meant to be a celebration but is now tinged with deep sorrow . This simple yet powerful statement encapsulates the complex emotions surrounding Ikkis, a film that stands as Dharmendra’s final cinematic farewell.
Table of Contents
- The Making of ‘Ikkis’: A Film for the Ages
- Jaideep Ahlawat on Dharmendra: Warmth and Wit on Set
- Dharmendra’s Enduring Legacy in Bollywood
- The Significance of ‘Ikkis’ as Dharmendra’s Final Role
- Conclusion: A Tribute to a Gentle Giant
- Sources
The Making of ‘Ikkis’: A Film for the Ages
Directed by the acclaimed Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis is not your typical war drama. It’s a biographical epic that tells the true and inspiring story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, who displayed extraordinary bravery during the 1971 Indo-Pak war . The film features a powerhouse cast, with newcomer Agastya Nanda playing the titular role of Arun Khetarpal, Simar Bhatia as his love interest, and Deepak Dobriyal in a key supporting role .
At the heart of this ensemble were two generations of Bollywood stalwarts: Jaideep Ahlawat, known for his intense and grounded performances, and the legendary Dharmendra, who played the role of M.L. Khetarpal, Arun’s father . The film, originally slated for a Christmas 2025 release, was postponed and is now set to premiere in cinemas worldwide on January 1, 2026 .
Jaideep Ahlawat on Dharmendra: Warmth and Wit on Set
For Ahlawat, being cast alongside Dharmendra was nothing short of a dream come true. He has often spoken about his admiration for the veteran actor, and the opportunity to share the screen with him was a moment of immense personal and professional validation. On set, Ahlawat found Dharmendra to be far removed from his larger-than-life “He-Man” persona.
Instead, he encountered a man of immense warmth, humility, and a sharp, endearing sense of humor. Ahlawat recalled delightful moments filled with laughter, where Dharmendra’s easy-going nature helped create a collaborative and comfortable atmosphere for everyone involved . This human side of the legend, his ability to connect with his co-stars on a personal level, is what Ahlawat cherishes most.
Dharmendra’s Enduring Legacy in Bollywood
Dharmendra, born on December 8, 1935, was a towering figure in Indian cinema for over six decades . Affectionately known as Bollywood’s “He-Man,” he was celebrated not just for his rugged good looks and action-hero roles, but also for his versatility in romantic and dramatic films . His passing on November 24, 2025, at the age of 89, marked the end of an era .
His legacy extends beyond his own filmography. He is the patriarch of one of Bollywood’s most influential families, with sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, and daughter-in-law Esha Deol, all making significant contributions to the industry. His influence on the craft and culture of Hindi cinema is immeasurable, and his absence is deeply felt by fans and colleagues alike.
The Significance of ‘Ikkis’ as Dharmendra’s Final Role
The fact that Ikkis serves as Dharmendra’s swan song adds a layer of poignant significance to the film. His role as a father grappling with the ultimate sacrifice of his son is a powerful and fitting final chapter to a legendary career. For audiences, watching the film will be more than just a cinematic experience; it will be a final, bittersweet farewell to a beloved icon.
For his co-stars, especially Jaideep Ahlawat, promoting the film without its senior-most member is an emotional challenge. The “void” Ahlawat speaks of is not just a physical absence but the loss of a guiding presence whose energy and spirit had become integral to the project. This context makes Ikkis a unique piece of cinema—a war story intertwined with a real-life narrative of loss and legacy.
Conclusion: A Tribute to a Gentle Giant
Jaideep Ahlawat’s reflections on working with Dharmendra offer a rare and intimate glimpse into the man behind the myth. His words paint a picture of a gentle giant whose kindness and humor left an indelible mark on everyone he worked with. As we await the release of Ikkis, his tribute serves as a powerful reminder of Dharmendra’s enduring humanity and his monumental contribution to Indian storytelling. The film will undoubtedly be a celebration of a national hero’s life, but for those on set, it will forever be a cherished memory of their time with a true legend. For more on the evolution of the war genre in Bollywood, see our feature on [INTERNAL_LINK:bollywood-war-movies-evolution].