Who is Arun Khetarpal, inspiration for Agastya Nanda’s ‘Ikkis’?
Amitabh Bachchan’s grandson, Agastya Nanda, is all set to make his Bollywood debut with the film ‘Ikkis’, where he plays the role of Indian Army Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. Khetarpal, who played a pivotal role in the 1971 Indo-Pak War, was born on October 14, 1950, in Pune into a distinguished military family. He studied at the prestigious Lawrence School in Himachal’s Sanawar before joining the National Defence Academy (NDA) in 1967.
Arun Khetarpal’s family had a long history of serving in the Indian Armed Forces. His father, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal, was a decorated officer who had served in World War II and the Indo-Pak War of 1947-48. Growing up in a military family, Arun was exposed to the values of discipline, duty, and sacrifice from a young age. He was an outstanding student and an avid sportsman, excelling in hockey, football, and boxing.
After completing his schooling, Arun joined the NDA in 1967, where he underwent rigorous training to become a commissioned officer in the Indian Army. He was commissioned into the 17 Poona Horse, an armoured regiment that had a long and distinguished history of serving in various conflicts. Arun’s regiment was equipped with the iconic PT-76 tanks, which played a crucial role in the 1971 Indo-Pak War.
The 1971 Indo-Pak War was a watershed moment in Indian history, marked by the liberation of Bangladesh from Pakistani rule. The war began on December 3, 1971, when the Indian Air Force launched a series of pre-emptive strikes against Pakistani airbases. The Indian Army, supported by the air force and navy, launched a multi-pronged attack on Pakistani forces in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).
Arun Khetarpal’s regiment, the 17 Poona Horse, was part of the Indian Army’s 47 Infantry Brigade, which was tasked with securing the town of Jamalpur in East Pakistan. On December 16, 1971, Arun’s unit was ordered to attack a Pakistani position in the Jamalpur sector. As the Indian tanks advanced, they came under heavy fire from Pakistani artillery and infantry.
Arun, who was just 21 years old at the time, was commanding a troop of three tanks. He led the charge against the Pakistani position, despite being vastly outnumbered and outgunned. As the Indian tanks advanced, they were met with fierce resistance from the Pakistani forces. Arun’s tank was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade, which destroyed one of its tracks.
Undeterred, Arun ordered his crew to abandon the tank and take cover behind a nearby ditch. He then proceeded to engage the Pakistani forces with his tank’s machine gun, inflicting heavy casualties on the enemy. Despite being wounded, Arun continued to fight, inspiring his comrades to do the same.
As the battle raged on, Arun’s tank was hit again, this time by a shell that destroyed its gun turret. Arun was mortally wounded in the blast, but he refused to give up. With his last breath, he ordered his crew to withdraw from the battlefield and regroup with the rest of the unit.
Arun Khetarpal’s bravery and sacrifice did not go in vain. His unit secured the Jamalpur sector, paving the way for the Indian Army’s advance into East Pakistan. The 1971 Indo-Pak War ended with the surrender of Pakistani forces on December 16, 1971, marking a decisive victory for India.
Arun Khetarpal was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), India’s highest military honour, for his exceptional bravery and sacrifice. His legacy continues to inspire generations of Indian Army officers, who regard him as a role model and a symbol of courage and duty.
The film ‘Ikkis’, which tells the story of Arun Khetarpal’s life and bravery, is a tribute to his memory and a reminder of the sacrifices made by Indian Armed Forces personnel in the line of duty. Agastya Nanda, who plays the role of Arun Khetarpal, has said that he was deeply inspired by the officer’s story and feels privileged to have had the opportunity to portray him on screen.
As the nation remembers Arun Khetarpal’s bravery and sacrifice, it is also a reminder of the importance of honouring the memories of our fallen heroes. Their stories of courage and duty continue to inspire us, reminding us of the values that make our nation great.
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News Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch
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