DYK Javed Akhtar and Salim Khan were forced to change Sholay’s climax due to Emergency?

Few films have left as deep and lasting an imprint on Indian cinema as Sholay. Released in 1975, Ramesh Sippy’s magnum opus redefined storytelling, action, and characterisation on the big screen. It shattered box‑office records, ran for over five years in theatres, and became a cultural touchstone whose dialogues, characters, and music still echo through generations. From Jai and Veeru’s unbreakable friendship to Gabbar Singh’s menacing charisma, Sholay remains more than just a movie; it’s a legend.

A 50-Year Celebration with a Hidden Chapter

Now, as the film celebrates its 50th anniversary, an intriguing revelation has come to light, courtesy of Javed Akhtar’s son, Farhan Akhtar. He shared how political circumstances during the Emergency forced the legendary writer duo Salim‑Javed to alter the original, hard‑hitting climax of the film.

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The Original Climax: Justice Served with Bare Hands

Salim‑Javed had originally envisioned a much darker ending. In their version, Thakur (Sanjeev Kumar), who had lost his family to Gabbar Singh’s brutality, exacts personal revenge by crushing the villain with his feet. This raw, emotionally charged conclusion was designed to deliver the ultimate catharsis to audiences.

Emergency Censorship Strikes

However, when Sholay was ready for release, India was under the Emergency. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) found the violent ending too graphic and politically sensitive, ordering the filmmakers to tone it down. As a result, the climax was reshot, Thakur restrained himself and handed Gabbar over to the police instead of killing him.

A Disappointment for the Writers

While the revised ending aligned with the principle of justice prevailing through law, it took away the raw emotional punch Salim‑Javed had intended. Farhan Akhtar recalled that his father and Salim Khan were unhappy with the change, joking years later that in the new climax, "everyone shows up, including the villagers, the police, and even the heroes. The only one missing was a postman.”

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Release of Original Ending

Decades later, the original violent ending resurfaced in director’s cut versions and special releases, allowing audiences to experience the filmmakers’ original vision.

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The episode stands as a reminder of how political forces can shape even the most iconic works of art, and yet, Sholay still emerged as a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire generations.