Peace Will Never Go Out of Fashion: Agastya Nanda Reflects on Ikkis
Unfazed by box-office verdicts, the young actor defends Sriram Raghavan’s war drama and embraces the unvarnished commercial realities of showbiz.
Published 5 November 2026
Introduction to Ikkis and Commercial Realities
In an industry obsessed with weekend opening numbers and box-office verdicts, actor Agastya Nanda is taking an admirably grounded view of cinema. Following his big-screen theatrical outing in Sriram Raghavan's biographical war drama Ikkis, the actor has opened up about navigating commercial headwinds with grace.
While the film may not have set cash registers ringing, its anti-war ethos and heartfelt storytelling remain an enduring badge of pride for its leading star.
Honoring a Hero on the Big Screen
Centred on Param Vir Chakra hero Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who was martyred at 21 during the 1971 Battle of Basantar, the film stood apart for its humanistic outlook.
Reflecting on the box-office outcome, Agastya told PTI that Ikkis may not have done well commercially, but none of them stand there like failures, adding that they have a lot of pride for the film they made.
Gratitude for the Message of Peace
The leading star expressed that they will be forever grateful for preaching peace and love, emphasizing that peace will never go out of fashion.
Displaying maturity beyond his years, The Archies breakout star acknowledged the harsh realities of film economics rather than romanticising box-office failure.
Understanding the Business of Cinema
Agastya spoke candidly about industry dynamics, noting that there is a practicality to films at the end of the day because many people earn daily wages on that film, and it is okay to be responsible for that.
He further explained that if you are a star and you are making money, you will get bigger films, and if you are not, you won't, pointing out that it is not a personal thing but commerce.
The Creative Industry and Financial Laws
The actor noted that people forget it is an industry because it is creative, yet it follows the laws of any industry, which is that people need to make money.
He observed that if you cannot guarantee their money, then they do not want to take a chance.
Collaborations and Future Patience
Co-starring the late Dharmendra and Jaideep Ahlawat, Ikkis proved that artistic conviction often outlasts theatrical runs.
Agastya remains patient, stating he is happy to earn his stripes rather than rush into big-ticket films.
News Overview
Actor Agastya Nanda has reflected on the commercial performance of Sriram Raghavan's biographical war drama Ikkis, which centres on Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal. While acknowledging the financial realities and practicalities of the film industry, the young star expressed immense pride in the project's anti-war message and remains patient about his career path.
Key facts
- Published on Nov 5, 2026, 18:10 IST
- Written by Khushi Mundhwa
- Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal was martyred at 21 during the 1971 Battle of Basantar
- Agastya Nanda starred in The Archies