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 biographical drama that aims to bring to life the bravery and sacrifice of this young officer, who gave his life for the country at the age of 21.
Arun Khetarpal’s early life and education laid the foundation for his future as a military officer. His family had a long history of serving in the Indian Army, and it was only natural that he would follow in their footsteps. After completing his schooling at Lawrence School, Khetarpal joined the NDA, where he underwent rigorous training to become a commissioned officer in the Indian Army. He was commissioned into the 17 Poona Horse, a cavalry regiment that has a long and distinguished history of bravery and sacrifice.
The 1971 Indo-Pak War was a pivotal moment in Indian history, and Arun Khetarpal played a key role in the conflict. As a Second Lieutenant, he was part of the Indian Army’s offensive against Pakistan, and he saw action in the Battle of Basantar, which was one of the most intense and bloody battles of the war. On December 16, 1971, Khetarpal’s unit was tasked with capturing a key Pakistani position, and he led the charge with his troop of tanks.
As the Indian tanks approached the Pakistani position, they came under heavy fire, and Khetarpal’s tank was hit, injuring him seriously. Despite his injuries, he continued to fight, and he managed to destroy several Pakistani tanks before his own tank was hit again. Khetarpal was mortally wounded in the battle, but he refused to abandon his tank, and he continued to fight until he died.
Arun Khetarpal’s bravery and sacrifice in the Battle of Basantar were recognized with the award of the Param Vir Chakra (PVC), India’s highest military honor. The PVC is awarded to officers who display extraordinary courage and valor in the face of the enemy, and Khetarpal’s actions on December 16, 1971, were a testament to his bravery and selflessness.
The story of Arun Khetarpal’s life and sacrifice is an inspiration to millions of Indians, and it is a reminder of the bravery and valor of the Indian Army. The film ‘Ikkis’ aims to bring this story to life, and Agastya Nanda’s portrayal of Khetarpal is expected to be a highlight of the film. The film’s director, Vijay Maurya, has said that he was inspired by Khetarpal’s story, and he wanted to bring it to the big screen to inspire a new generation of Indians.
The film ‘Ikkis’ is not just a biographical drama, but it is also a tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the Indian Army. The film’s cast, including Agastya Nanda, has undergone rigorous training to portray the roles of army officers, and the film’s action sequences are expected to be intense and realistic. The film’s music, composed by John Stewart Eduri, is also expected to be a highlight, with several patriotic songs that are sure to inspire audiences.
In conclusion, Arun Khetarpal’s story is an inspiration to millions of Indians, and it is a reminder of the bravery and valor of the Indian Army. The film ‘Ikkis’ aims to bring this story to life, and Agastya Nanda’s portrayal of Khetarpal is expected to be a highlight of the film. As we remember the sacrifice of this young officer, who gave his life for the country at the age of 21, we are reminded of the importance of bravery, selflessness, and patriotism.
To know more about the film ‘Ikkis’ and Arun Khetarpal’s story, you can watch the trailer and other videos on https://www.youtube.com/watch.
News Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch
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