Sunny Deol and Akshaye Khanna are set to star in Ikka
, a legal drama marking their first on-screen collaboration in 29 years, following their work together in the 1997 film Border
. The project, announced as part of Netflix India’s 2026 content slate, represents both actors’ debut in the over-the-top (OTT) streaming space.
A Return to the Courtroom
The series, described as an intense legal drama
, will see Deol and Khanna facing off against each other. Initial promotional material released shows Sunny Deol striking Akshaye Khanna, hinting at a contentious dynamic within the narrative. While specific plot details remain scarce, the focus is clearly on a high-stakes courtroom battle. The first look teaser has already generated online buzz, with some netizens drawing parallels to their roles in Border
, referencing a character known as Rehman Dakait
.
Netflix Expansion and the Rise of Indian Legal Dramas
The inclusion of Ikka
in Netflix’s 2026 lineup signals the streaming giant’s continued investment in Indian content. The announcement, made alongside a broader unveiling of new shows and movies featuring actors like Anil Kapoor and Madhavan, demonstrates Netflix’s strategy to cater to a diverse Indian audience. The platform is increasingly becoming a destination for high-quality Indian dramas, and the addition of established Bollywood stars like Deol and Khanna is expected to further bolster its subscriber base.
The Cast and Creative Team
Alongside Deol and Khanna, Dia Mirza is also confirmed to be part of the cast. Details regarding the remaining cast members and the creative team – including the director, writers, and producers – have not yet been publicly released. However, the presence of two veteran actors with a significant following suggests a production with considerable backing and ambition.
OTT Debut for Bollywood Veterans
Both Sunny Deol and Akshaye Khanna have built successful careers primarily within the traditional Bollywood film industry. Ikka
represents a significant shift for both actors, marking their first foray into the world of OTT streaming. This move reflects a broader trend within the Indian entertainment industry, where established film stars are increasingly recognizing the potential of digital platforms to reach wider audiences and explore new creative avenues. The series is described as a high-octane legal thriller
, suggesting a departure from some of their more established roles.
Release Date and Production Timeline
While a precise release date for Ikka
has not been definitively announced, it is slated to be released on Netflix in 2026. The project is currently in production, and further details regarding the filming schedule and post-production process are expected to be revealed in the coming months. The announcement of the 2026 release date allows Netflix ample time to complete production and marketing efforts.
The Growing Popularity of Legal Dramas
The choice of a legal drama as the vehicle for Deol and Khanna’s OTT debut is noteworthy. Legal dramas have consistently proven popular with audiences both in India and internationally. The genre offers inherent dramatic tension, compelling characters, and opportunities to explore complex moral and ethical dilemmas. The success of similar legal dramas on other platforms likely influenced Netflix’s decision to greenlight Ikka
.
What to Expect from Ikka
Based on the available information, Ikka
promises to be a gripping and intense courtroom drama featuring two of Bollywood’s most recognizable stars. The reunion of Sunny Deol and Akshaye Khanna after nearly three decades is a major draw, and their on-screen chemistry will be a key factor in the series’ success. The shift to the OTT platform allows for a potentially more nuanced and complex narrative than might be possible in a traditional theatrical release. The series is expected to appeal to both fans of Deol and Khanna, as well as viewers who enjoy legal thrillers and high-quality Indian dramas.
As of , further details regarding the plot, supporting cast, and creative team remain under wraps. However, the initial announcement and promotional material have generated significant excitement and anticipation for this highly anticipated Netflix original series.
