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. The film ‘Ikkis’ is a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of Khetarpal, who was just 21 years old when he laid down his life for the country.
Arun Khetarpal’s family had a long history of serving in the Indian military. His father, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal, was a decorated army officer who had served in World War II and the Indo-Pak War of 1947. Arun’s mother, Sunita Khetarpal, was also from a military family, and her father had served in the British Indian Army. Growing up in a family with a strong military background, Arun was inspired to join the army from a young age. He was an exceptional student and athlete, and his parents encouraged him to pursue a career in the military.
After completing his schooling from Lawrence School, Sanawar, Arun joined the National Defence Academy (NDA) in 1967. The NDA is a prestigious institution that trains cadets to become officers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Arun excelled in his studies and was commissioned into the 17 Poona Horse, a cavalry regiment of the Indian Army, in 1971. He was just 20 years old when he became a Second Lieutenant in the army.
The 1971 Indo-Pak War was a pivotal moment in Indian history. Pakistan had been trying to annex the eastern wing of the country, which is now Bangladesh, and India had been supporting the liberation movement. On December 3, 1971, Pakistan launched a surprise attack on Indian airbases, which led to a full-scale war between the two countries. Arun Khetarpal, who was then a Second Lieutenant, was part of the 17 Poona Horse regiment that was deployed in the Shakargarh sector of Punjab.
On December 16, 1971, Arun’s regiment was tasked with capturing the village of Basantar, which was a key stronghold of the Pakistani army. The village was heavily fortified, and the Pakistani army had deployed a large number of troops and tanks to defend it. Arun’s regiment, which was part of the 54 Infantry Division, launched a bold attack on the village, despite being outnumbered and outgunned.
Arun Khetarpal, who was commanding a troop of tanks, played a pivotal role in the battle. He led his tanks into the heart of the enemy’s position, destroying several Pakistani tanks and infantry positions. Despite being heavily outnumbered, Arun’s troop fought bravely, and they were able to capture the village of Basantar. However, during the battle, Arun’s tank was hit by a Pakistani shell, and he was mortally wounded.
As Arun lay dying, he refused to abandon his tank and his comrades. He continued to fight, despite his injuries, and was able to destroy several more Pakistani tanks before he succumbed to his wounds. Arun’s bravery and sacrifice inspired his comrades to fight on, and they were eventually able to capture the village of Basantar.
Arun Khetarpal was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honor, for his bravery and sacrifice. His citation reads: “Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal was born on 14th October 1950, at Pune. He was commissioned in the 17 Poona Horse on 13th June 1971. On 16th December 1971, his squadron was ordered to attack the enemy position in the Shakargarh sector. As the squadron was approaching the objective, it came under heavy enemy fire. The officer, with utter disregard for his personal safety, charged the enemy position, and in a fierce tank battle, destroyed several enemy tanks. Though his tank was hit several times, he continued to fight, and when the last enemy tank was destroyed, he was fatally wounded. The officer, with his bravery, inspired his troops to fight valiantly, and the objective was captured.”
The film ‘Ikkis’ is a tribute to Arun Khetarpal’s bravery and sacrifice. The film, which stars Agastya Nanda in the lead role, follows the story of Arun’s life, from his childhood to his martyrdom. The film is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers, and it is a testament to the bravery and patriotism of Arun Khetarpal.
In conclusion, Arun Khetarpal was a true hero of the Indian Army, who laid down his life for the country at a very young age. His bravery and sacrifice will always be remembered, and he will continue to inspire generations of Indians to come. The film ‘Ikkis’ is a fitting tribute to his memory, and it is a must-watch for anyone who loves India and its armed forces.
News Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch
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