Sholay’s 50 year legacy to light up Toronto International Film Festival on Sep 6

Mumbai, Aug 10 (UNI) In a moment steeped in nostalgia and cinematic reverence, Ramesh Sippy’s classic “Sholay” will be showcased in its newly restored 4K glory at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on September 6.

Sholay, a blockbuster film in the history of Indian cinema, was released on August 15, 1975. As the film marks its 50th anniversary, the Film Heritage Foundation has restored the original negative, reviving its visual grandeur for a new generation.

The Film Heritage Foundation, in collaboration with Sippy Films, took to its official Instagram handle to announce the celebration of the 50th anniversary of Sholay.

Along with the poster, the caption read, “Indian cinematic epic ‘Sholay’ (1975), directed by Ramesh Sippy, celebrates 50 years with the North American Premiere of the restored version at the 50th edition of the TIFF Toronto International Film Festival! This special screening will take place on September 6, 2025, at a gala event at the 1800-seater Roy Thomson Hall, befitting the legendary status of the film.

The film has been restored in 4K by Film Heritage Foundation in association with Sippy Films Pvt. Ltd.”
Sharing his thoughts on the restoration, Amitabh Bachchan expressed and said, “Some things in life remain permanently etched in your mind. Sholay is one such film.

Shooting for the film was an unforgettable experience, but at the time I had no idea that it would be a watershed for Indian cinema. Its dramatic change in fortunes from being declared an unsuccessful venture, to its record-breaking box office run was an emotional rollercoaster for all of us.

It’s wonderful that the Film Heritage Foundation has restored Sholay and that they have managed to locate and include the original ending as well as some deleted scenes in the restoration.

I hope that even 50 years later, the film will capture the imagination of new audiences across the world.”
Produced by G.P. Sippy and directed by Ramesh Sippy, “Sholay” enjoyed a legendary five-year run at Mumbai’s Minerva Theatre, breaking every box office record of its time.

The film gave a new direction to Indian cinema with its legendary dialogues, unforgettable score and an ensemble cast including Sanjeev Kumar, Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, Jaya Bhaduri and Amjad Khan, it remains etched in the collective consciousness of Indian cinema.