Sriram Raghavan on Varun Dhawan's Ikkis Exit: 'Age of 40s Jeetendra is Over'

• Director Sriram Raghavan replaced Varun Dhawan with Agastya Nanda in 'Ikkis' due to the character Arun's age, who is 19.
• Raghavan emphasized the need for a fresh, young face, stating, 'The age when Jeetendra could dance around trees in his 40s is over.'
• Agastya Nanda, 21 when cast, was chosen for his youth, innocence, and willingness to commit 2-3 years to the project.
• 'Ikkis' tells the inspiring story of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India's youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient.
• The film, also starring Dharmendra (his last movie), Simar Bhatia, and Jaideep Ahlawat, is set for a January 1, 2026 release.

Why It Matters: Varun Dhawan was replaced in 'Ikkis' by Agastya Nanda due to the character's young age requirement.