Mumbai, August 15, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Megastar Amitabh Bachchan has recalled the enduring global appeal of ‘Sholay’, revealing that around 2,000 Italians gathered in an open-air square in Bologna to watch the restored version of the iconic Hindi film from 11 p.m. until 3 a.m.
Bachchan shared the anecdote during a recent episode of ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 18’ while interacting with contestant Dr Ganesh Baraiya. The actor spoke about the restoration of Ramesh Sippy’s 1975 classic and the response to its screening in Italy.
Recalling the event, Bachchan said the restored print of ‘Sholay’, taken to Italy as part of a film heritage initiative led by Shivendra Singh, was screened in a large public square in Bologna.
He said around 2,000 Italian viewers watched the film through the night, from 11 p.m. to 3 a.m., highlighting the lasting appeal of the film even outside India.
The restored version had its world premiere in Bologna on June 27, 2025, as part of events marking the film’s 50th anniversary.
Released on August 15, 1975, ‘Sholay’ was directed by Ramesh Sippy, produced by G.P. Sippy and written by the celebrated duo Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar, popularly known as Salim-Javed.
The film follows retired police officer Thakur Baldev Singh, played by Sanjeev Kumar, who hires small-time criminals Jai and Veeru, portrayed by Bachchan and Dharmendra, to capture the notorious dacoit Gabbar Singh, played by Amjad Khan.
Hema Malini played the spirited Basanti, while Jaya Bhaduri portrayed Radha, the widow with whom Thakur shares a quiet emotional connection. The ensemble cast also included A.K. Hangal, Satyen Kappu, Mac Mohan, Sachin, Jagdeep, Asrani, Viju Khote, Keshto Mukherjee, Helen and Sachin Pilgaonkar.
R.D. Burman composed the music, with lyrics by Anand Bakshi. The soundtrack produced several enduring songs, including ‘Yeh Dosti Hum Nahin Todenge’, ‘Holi Ke Din’, ‘Koi Haseena Jab Rooth Jaati Hai’, ‘Mehbooba Mehbooba’ and ‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan’.
Shot extensively around the rocky landscapes of Ramanagara in Karnataka, the film brought together action, drama, romance, comedy and tragedy on an ambitious scale.
Although ‘Sholay’ reportedly opened to a muted theatrical response and was initially considered at risk of failing, strong word-of-mouth support transformed its fortunes. It went on to become a major hit, enjoyed an unusually long theatrical run and eventually achieved cult status.
Its characters, dialogues and music have since become deeply embedded in Indian popular culture, while the Bologna screening highlighted the film’s continuing resonance with international audiences.
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