How Did Amjad Khan Go from 'Mouse' to 'Badha Star' in Sholay?
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Synopsis
On the 50th anniversary of Sholay, director Ramesh Sippy reflects on the casting of Amjad Khan as Gabbar. Initially doubted, Khan's transformation into an iconic figure reshaped Bollywood. Discover the journey of this legendary film and its enduring impact.
Key Takeaways
- Amjad Khan's casting as Gabbar redefined his career.
- Sholay's initial lukewarm response turned into a significant box office success.
- The film is celebrated as a classic in Indian cinema.
- It showcases the power of storytelling in shaping characters.
- Sholay remains a cultural touchstone, influencing generations.
Mumbai, Aug 15 (NationPress) Renowned director Ramesh Sippy shared insights about his decision to cast Amjad Khan as Gabbar in the legendary film Sholay. Initially, many questioned his judgment, considering the late actor to be like a 'mouse' among the towering stars.
However, Amjad's extraordinary portrayal silenced the critics, elevating him to the status of an iconic superstar.
Reflecting on the casting debates surrounding Gabbar, Sippy remarked to IANS: “For those who were skeptical, they might say that there were many big stars, and yet a mouse was placed in front of them (itne saare bade actor log hai aur unke saamne ek chuha khada kardiya).”
“Little did they know that they would get a reality check; he emerged as the biggest star (aur unko kya pata tha ki aisi thappad wapas milegi wohi sabse bada star ban gaya),” he continued.
Sholay, which features Dharmendra and Amitabh Bachchan, narrates the tale of two criminals, Veeru and Jai, who are enlisted by a retired police officer, portrayed by Sanjeev Kumar, to capture the merciless dacoit Gabbar Singh.
The film was shot in the rugged landscape of Ramanagara, located in Karnataka, over two and a half years, beginning in October 1973.
In 1990, the director's original cut of 204 minutes was released on home media. Upon its release, Sholay faced unfavorable reviews and a lukewarm initial reception; however, positive word-of-mouth soon transformed it into a box office triumph. Today, Sholay is celebrated as one of India's most significant and influential films.
At the time of its release, Sholay was the highest-grossing Indian film ever and held that title until Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!. By various accounts, Sholay remains one of the highest-grossing Indian films of all time, especially when adjusted for inflation.
Point of View
It's crucial to acknowledge how Sholay not only transformed the careers of its actors but also set a benchmark in Indian cinema. Ramesh Sippy's bold choices reflect the evolving dynamics of storytelling in Bollywood. The remarkable journey of Amjad Khan showcases the power of talent over initial perception, highlighting the importance of embracing creativity in filmmaking.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Amjad Khan's role in Sholay?
Amjad Khan's portrayal of Gabbar Singh is iconic, marking a turning point in Bollywood where a character actor became a superstar, redefining the industry.
How did Sholay perform at the box office?
Initially receiving mixed reviews, Sholay became a massive box office success through positive word-of-mouth, eventually becoming one of the highest-grossing films in India.
What themes does Sholay explore?
Sholay explores themes of friendship, justice, and revenge, set against the backdrop of rural India amidst a battle against lawlessness.
When was Sholay released?
Sholay was released in 1975 and has since become a cultural phenomenon, influencing countless films and filmmakers.
Where was Sholay filmed?
Sholay was filmed in the rocky terrain of Ramanagara, Karnataka, adding to its unique visual appeal and setting.
