Published on: October 30, 2025 | 6:52 PM IST
Bollywood is abuzz with the release of the trailer for Ikkis, the much-anticipated film starring Agastya Nanda alongside newcomer Simar Bhatia, marking her debut in the Hindi film industry. While the trailer has already won acclaim for its gripping story of courage and patriotism, the film holds a special place in the hearts of the Kumar-Khanna family, as it marks the Bollywood debut of Akshay Kumar’s niece. Both Akshay and his wife Twinkle Khanna have expressed their pride and excitement over Simar stepping into the spotlight.
Akshay Kumar’s Heartfelt Message
Akshay Kumar took to Instagram to share his joy and admiration for his niece, writing:
“My little Simi’s not so little anymore… from your living room performances to the big screen in #Ikkis, heart bursting with pride! @simarbhatia18 And Agastya, what screen presence! Wishing the whole team huge success.”
The post reflects the proud uncle’s affection and the deep connection he shares with Simar, who has grown up surrounded by Bollywood’s limelight yet has always maintained close ties to her family. Akshay’s message was met with warm responses from industry stalwarts including Amitabh Bachchan, Navya Nanda, and Suhana Khan, all extending their congratulations and support for the young actress.
Twinkle Khanna Joins the Celebration
Twinkle Khanna, too, couldn’t contain her pride as she shared a clip of Simar from the trailer, writing:
“Our @simarbhatia18 now belongs to the world. So refreshingly natural. Well done, my talented little one.”
Simar responded graciously to her aunt’s praise, saying,
“Thank you so much for this. People pay for your words. I just got blessed.”
The exchange highlights not only the close-knit bond within the family but also the encouragement and support that has accompanied Simar from her early years to her professional debut.
Simar Bhatia: From Family Talent to Big Screen Debut
Simar is the daughter of Alka Bhatia, Akshay Kumar’s sister, and has been part of the family’s inner circle for years. Growing up surrounded by Bollywood’s glitz and glamour, she has often been spoken of fondly by her uncle for her natural talent and poise. With Ikkis, she is now making her professional mark on the big screen, embarking on what promises to be a promising career.
Her debut alongside Agastya Nanda, who plays the lead role of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, positions her in a story of patriotism, courage, and emotional resonance. The film’s narrative centers on Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient, and his journey as a brave soldier committed to his duty and his regiment.
Inside the Ikkis Trailer
Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Sriram Raghavan, Ikkis presents an inspiring tale of valor and dedication. The trailer opens with Agastya Nanda, portraying Arun Khetarpal, vowing to earn the next Param Vir Chakra for his regiment. It showcases his rigorous training, his moments of emotional connection with family, and the challenges he faces on the battlefield.
Simar Bhatia’s character adds depth to the story, contributing to the emotional narrative and providing a nuanced portrayal that complements the larger-than-life heroism of Arun Khetarpal. Her on-screen presence is marked by natural ease and authenticity, which has already garnered attention from viewers and industry insiders alike.
Veteran actor Dharmendra stars as Arun’s grandfather, a proud and inspirational war hero, while Jaideep Ahlawat plays a Pakistani officer who acknowledges Arun’s bravery, reflecting the mutual respect shared by soldiers even across borders. The trailer manages to strike a balance between the intensity of war and the personal, human moments that define the characters’ journeys.
A Bright Beginning for Simar
With her debut in a film of such scale and emotional weight, Simar Bhatia appears poised to carve out a significant place in Bollywood. The film provides her with an opportunity to display her acting abilities alongside a talented ensemble cast, giving her an auspicious start to her career.
For the Kumar-Khanna family, the release of the trailer is more than just a cinematic event; it is a moment of familial pride and celebration. Both Akshay Kumar and Twinkle Khanna have long supported young talent within the family, and their public endorsements underscore the encouragement and mentorship they provide.
Simar’s debut is also reflective of a new generation of actors making their mark in Bollywood, balancing respect for tradition and legacy with the potential to bring fresh energy to the industry. Her performance in Ikkis promises to be closely watched by both audiences and critics, eager to see how she translates her familial training and natural talent into professional success.
Looking Ahead
As anticipation builds around Ikkis, the focus will not only be on the heroic journey of Arun Khetarpal but also on Simar Bhatia’s promising start. Industry insiders and audiences alike are eager to see how her portrayal resonates on the big screen and how her career develops in the coming years.
The trailer has already struck a chord with viewers, combining patriotism, human emotion, and compelling performances. With Simar’s debut alongside Agastya Nanda, and the guidance of a celebrated director like Sriram Raghavan, the film sets the stage for a memorable cinematic experience.
In conclusion, the release of the Ikkis trailer marks a dual celebration: the telling of a powerful story of bravery and the launch of Simar Bhatia’s Bollywood career. The outpouring of love and pride from Akshay Kumar, Twinkle Khanna, and other members of the film fraternity underscores the significance of this moment for the family. For Simar, it is a moment to step confidently into the industry, and for audiences, it is an introduction to a fresh, promising talent whose journey in cinema has only just begun.
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