The restored version of Sholay, one of Indian cinema’s most iconic films, is set to have its world premiere at the Il Cinema Ritrovato Festival in Bologna, Italy, on June 27. This screening marks the first time audiences will witness the original, uncut version of the 1975 classic, complete with previously deleted scenes and the film’s intended ending.
Directed by Ramesh Sippy and written by Salim-Javed, Sholay has long been considered a landmark in Indian filmmaking. The film, stars Sanjeev Kumar, Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Hema Malini, Jaya Bhaduri, and Amjad Khan as the infamous Gabbar Singh. It follows two small-time criminals recruited by a retired police officer to capture a ruthless bandit terrorising a village.
The restoration was carried out over three years by Film Heritage Foundation in collaboration with Sippy Films Pvt. Ltd. Due to the deterioration of the original negatives, the team relied on interpositives and color reversal intermediates sourced from archives in Mumbai and London. The restored cut reinstates two previously unseen scenes and the film’s original ending, long thought to be lost.
“This is a tribute to the vision and legacy of my grandfather G.P. Sippy,” said producer Shehzad Sippy. “It has taken us three years, but we were able to bring the film back to its full form.”
The film, originally shot for 70mm projection with stereophonic sound, has been returned to its intended 2.2:1 aspect ratio with a 5.1 sound mix. The team consulted cinematographer Kamlakar Rao to ensure technical accuracy.
Amitabh Bachchan called Sholay a “watershed for Indian cinema,” while Dharmendra described it as “the 8th wonder of the world.” Both actors praised the film’s enduring popularity and impact on Indian culture.
The premiere at Piazza Maggiore is expected to draw global audiences, reaffirming Sholay’s legacy as a cinematic milestone. The Il Cinema Ritrovato Festival runs from June 21 to 29.
