Dharmendra, a prominent figure in Bollywood, is often remembered for his role in the classic film Sholay, released in 1975. The film is a significant milestone in Indian cinema and continues to resonate with audiences today.
Dharmendra’s Ambitions on the Sholay Set
During the making of Sholay, Dharmendra expressed a strong desire to portray either the villain Gabbar Singh or the character Thakur Baldev Singh. Ultimately, he was cast as Veeru, a role that highlighted his on-screen charisma.
Dharmendra’s Accident with a Firearm
Interestingly, the production set witnessed a dramatic incident when Dharmendra accidentally fired a live bullet during filming. This accident nearly struck Amitabh Bachchan, who played Jai, and added a layer of intrigue to the film’s history.
Amitabh Bachchan’s Casting Journey
Beyond the accident, Dharmendra played a key role in Amitabh Bachchan’s casting. He recommended Bachchan for the role of Jai to director Ramesh Sippy, citing Bachchan’s unique presence and voice. This suggestion was pivotal as it helped launch Bachchan into stardom.
The Role of Jai Initially Offered Elsewhere
The role of Jai was first offered to Shatrughan Sinha. However, due to scheduling conflicts and creative differences, Sinha had to decline. Reflecting on this decision in a 2023 interview, he acknowledged how it unknowingly aided Bachchan’s rise to fame.
Sholay: A Cinematic Landmark
Sholay is celebrated not just for its action and drama, but for its exceptional storytelling, fueled by the collaboration of the screenwriting duo Salim-Javed. The film revolves around two small-time criminals who are hired to defeat the menacing dacoit Gabbar Singh.
- Release Year: 1975
- Main Cast:
- Dharmendra as Veeru
- Amitabh Bachchan as Jai
- Sanjeev Kumar as Thakur Baldev Singh
- Amjad Khan as Gabbar Singh
- Hema Malini as Basanti
- Jaya Bhaduri as Radha
- Notable Achievements:
- Topped British Film Institute’s list of “Top 10 Indian Films” in 2002.
- Honored as the “Best Film of 50 Years” at the 50th Filmfare Awards in 2005.
Today, Sholay remains an iconic film in Indian cinema, remembered for its compelling characters and unforgettable moments. The legacy of Dharmendra and Amitabh Bachchan continues to inspire new generations.
