Amitabh recalls 2000 Italians watching 'Sholay' from 11pm to 3am at Italy screening

Amitabh Bachchan has recounted a remarkable moment in the enduring legacy of his 1975 classic Sholay, recalling how 2,000 Italians gathered in Bologna’s central square to watch the newly restored version of the film over a span of nearly four hours. During a recent episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati Season 18, the actor shared this anecdote while discussing the restoration efforts of the iconic movie. The screening, which took place as part of the film’s 50th-anniversary celebrations, saw the restored print shown in an open-air setting, drawing a large crowd that remained engaged well into the early morning hours. The event unfolded in Bologna, a city known for its rich cultural history and vibrant public spaces. According to Amitabh, the restored print of Sholay, produced under the guidance of Shivendra Singh, who oversaw the restoration process, was taken to Italy specifically for this occasion. The choice of location was deliberate, as Bologna’s central square serves as a prominent gathering spot, much like the grand plazas found in major urban centers. The screening began at 11 p.m. and continued until 3 a.m., with thousands of locals lining up to witness the film in its renewed form. Sholay, directed by Ramesh Sippy and produced by G.P. Sippy, remains one of the most celebrated films in Indian cinema. Its narrative revolves around retired police officer Thakur Baldev Singh, who recruits two young criminals, Jai and Veeru, to track down the notorious dacoit Gabbar Singh. The film features a stellar ensemble cast, including Sanjeev Kumar as Thakur, Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra as the titular characters, and Hema Malini and Jaya Bhaduri as the leading ladies. Supporting roles were filled by notable actors such as A.K. Hangal, Satyen Kappu, Mac Mohan, Sachin, Jagdeep, Asrani, Viju Khote, Keshto Mukherjee, Helen, and Sachin Pilgaonkar. The film’s soundtrack, composed by R.D. Burman, includes some of Hindi cinema’s most beloved songs, with lyrics penned by Anand Bakshi. Tracks like “Yeh Dosti Hum Nahin Todenge,” “Holi Ke Din,” “Koi Haseena Jab Rooth Jaati Hai,” “Mehbooba Mehbooba,” and “Jab Tak Hai Jaan” have become timeless classics. The restoration of Sholay marked a significant milestone in preserving the film’s artistic integrity and ensuring its continued relevance for new generations of audiences. The decision to screen the restored version in Italy highlighted the film’s international appeal and its status as a cultural touchstone beyond India’s borders. The enthusiastic response from Italian viewers underscored the universal resonance of the story, themes, and performances that have captivated audiences for decades. As the restored print continues to be showcased in various locations, the legacy of Sholay endures, serving as a testament to the power of storytelling and the lasting impact of cinematic masterpieces. The upcoming screenings are expected to draw similar crowds, further cementing the film’s place in both Indian and global film history.