50 years of Sholay, a Bollywood classic

As India celebrates 50 years of Sholay, one of the most iconic films in Indian cinema history, I am reminded of my connection to this timeless classic. Released on 15 August 1975, Sholay is widely regarded as a milestone in Indian filmmaking — a movie that transcended genres and generations. But for me, Sholay is not just a film; it is a treasured memory from my childhood and a special bond I share with my father.

I was in school during the 1980s when my father took me to watch Sholay during one of its re-releases. Even years after its original release, the excitement around the film was still very much alive. I clearly remember the theatre being full — not a single empty seat. The atmosphere was electric, and as soon as the movie began with the opening train sequence, I was captivated.

The three-hour film had everything a young viewer could dream of — thrilling action, emotional drama, heartwarming friendship, memorable characters, and unforgettable music. It was my first actual cinematic experience, and it left a lasting impression that I still carry with me today.

What makes this memory even more special is my father's own connection to the making of the film. In the 1970s, he was serving in the Armed Police Force in Mysore. During the time Sholay was being filmed in Ramanagara — a rocky hill town located between Mysore and Bengaluru — he was part of the security team assigned to the location. Known today as "Ramgarh" in the film, Ramanagara's rugged landscape became an integral part of Sholay's identity. My father's stories of those days, when he saw the crew and cast at work, added a personal dimension to the film I would come to love.

Directed by Ramesh Sippy, Sholay introduced Indian audiences to a new kind of storytelling. It featured a powerful ensemble cast — Amitabh Bachchan as Jai, Dharmendra as Veeru, Sanjeev Kumar as Thakur, Hema Malini as Basanti, Jaya Bhaduri as Radha, and the unforgettable Amjad Khan as Gabbar Singh. The characters became cultural icons, and the dialogues turned into everyday phrases. Even today, lines such as:"Kitne aadmi the?" ("How many men were there?") "Basanti, in kutto ke saamne mat naachna" ("Basanti, don't dance in front of these dogs") They are instantly recognised across the country.

Sholay was also a technical achievement for its time — one of the first Indian films to be shot in 70mm with stereophonic sound, providing audiences with a richer cinematic experience. The film's music, composed by R.D. Burman, remains evergreen. Songs like "Yeh Dosti" and "Mehbooba Mehbooba" are still loved and played even today. Now, five decades later, Sholay continues to hold a special place in Indian cinema and in the hearts of its viewers. Its impact goes far beyond box office numbers or critical acclaim. It created a cultural phenomenon, one that united generations with its timeless themes of friendship, loyalty, sacrifice, and justice.

For me, Sholay is also a personal legacy — a memory of watching a film that connected me with my father, and a reminder of a time when movies were larger than life. As we celebrate 50 years of Sholay, I feel proud to have lived through part of its journey and grateful for the unforgettable experience it gave me.