Sholay Set for Re-Release with a Surprising Twist
The iconic film Sholay, released in 1975, is making a comeback in theaters on December 12. This new version, titled Sholay – The Final Cut, will feature the original ending that audiences have never seen before.
Earlier today, a trailer for the re-release was shared, leaving many longtime fans surprised. A significant change has been made to one of the film’s famous dialogues. In the original, Basanti, played by Hema Malini, says she thinks Veeru (Dharmendra) looks impressive, to which Jai (Amitabh Bachchan) humorously responds that Veeru is “James Bond’s grandson.” However, in the new trailer for The Final Cut, Jai’s reply has been altered to say he is “Tatya Tope’s grandson” instead.
This change has sparked outrage among fans who feel it undermines the integrity of a classic film. One source commented that Sholay is a movie cherished by many, and its lines are etched in their memories. “Any change will definitely be noticed and could upset countless fans,” they remarked.
There are also questions about the reasons behind the dialogue modification. Fans are wondering who authorized the change and whether the original creators, including director Ramesh Sippy and the writers Salim-Javed, approved it. Speculation is growing around how the new dialogue was recorded, with some suggesting the use of AI may have been involved.
In a recent interview, director Ramesh Sippy discussed the original ending of the film. He explained that the final version audiences are familiar with was shaped by external pressures during the filming process, particularly the political climate of the time. He recalled that the altered climax was typical of films in that era, which he was not fond of.
Fans will have the chance to decide for themselves when Sholay – The Final Cut hits theaters on December 12, but for now, the dialogue change continues to stir conversation.
