'Ikkis': Director reveals Dharmendra watched 70% of film before death
What's the story
The nation is mourning the demise of Bollywood icon Dharmendra, who passed away on November 24 at the age of 89. His swansong, Ikkis, is set to hit theaters on December 25. In a recent interview with Bollywood Hungama, director Sriram Raghavan revealed that the veteran actor had seen 70% of his film before his death.
Director's insight
'Ikkis' director reveals Dharmendra's involvement in dubbing process
Raghavan shared, "We dubbed a little bit with him in October. While dubbing, he wanted to see other portions as well. He saw 70% of the film." The filmmaker added that he had urged Dharmendra to watch the complete film with background music and rolling titles for a more immersive experience. "I regret the fact that he could not watch the film properly on screen," Raghavan expressed.
First encounter
Raghavan recalls 1st meeting with Dharmendra during 'Johnny Gaddaar'
Raghavan also reminisced about his first meeting with Dharmendra for Johnny Gaddaar (2007). "Someone had fixed up an appointment with him. I was quite nervous...I was meeting a star I had always loved." "He was a Member of Parliament at that time. I wondered, 'I am going to offer him a crime story about gangsters. What would he think?'" "But he put me at ease...I listed so many of his films which I had seen. He was amused and surprised."
'Ikkis'
Know more about 'Ikkis'
Ikkis also stars Agastya Nanda and Jaideep Ahlawat in key roles. Nanda will portray Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India's youngest Param Vir Chakra awardee. The film pays tribute to Khetarpal's bravery and sacrifice during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. It's produced by Dinesh Vijan.