When Sholay hit theatres in August 1975, few could’ve predicted that it would go on to define an era—and remain etched in the hearts of generations to come. As the legendary film marks its 50th anniversary this year, fascinating details from behind the scenes have resurfaced, offering a glimpse into its making and the people who brought it to life.Financially, the film’s cast was paid modestly by today’s standards. Dharmendra was reportedly the highest-paid actor on the sets, receiving ₹1.5 lakh for his portrayal of Veeru. Sanjeev Kumar, who embodied the resilient Thakur Baldev Singh, was paid ₹1.25 lakh, while Amitabh Bachchan—now a towering figure in Indian cinema—was paid ₹1 lakh for his role as Jai. The menacing yet unforgettable Gabbar Singh, played by Amjad Khan, earned him ₹50,000. Among the leading ladies, Hema Malini took home ₹75,000, whereas Jaya Bachchan received the least—just ₹35,000.In a recent interview, Dharmendra opened up about how Amitabh Bachchan came to be cast as Jai. Surprisingly, the role was initially intended for Shatrughan Sinha. Dharmendra, however, advocated for Amitabh. Recounting the moment, he shared, “Amitabh used to come meet me often and sit by my side. I once told Ramesh Sippy ji, ‘This new boy, listen to his voice—he has something special. He has this fire, this inner drive. Take him.’” The veteran actor revealed that he never claimed credit openly, but it was his quiet endorsement that helped Bachchan land the iconic part.Reflecting on the experience of working on Sholay, Dharmendra fondly remarked, “This film, I believe, is made for centuries to come.” His sentiment echoes the timeless impact the film continues to have, half a century after its release.
