Sholay turns 50 with 4K restoration, but Indian fans disheartened

When Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjeev Kumar, Hema Malini, and Jaya Bachchan’s Sholay first graced the big screen in 1975, it didn’t just become a movie; it became a cultural landmark. With its unforgettable characters, powerful dialogues, and a perfect blend of action, drama, and emotion, it redefined Indian cinema for generations.

Now, as the legendary film reaches its golden jubilee, marking 50 years since its release, the magic is set to return in a spectacular way. To commemorate this milestone, the film has been painstakingly restored in breathtaking 4K resolution and will be re-released on its 50th anniversary, giving audiences, old and new, an opportunity to experience its cinematic brilliance all over again.

A New Life for a Timeless Classic

According to recent reports, to honour the golden jubilee of Ramesh Sippy’s 1975 masterpiece, the Film Heritage Foundation (FHF), in partnership with Sippy Films Pvt. Ltd., has completed a high-quality 4K restoration of Sholay.

However, the world premiere of this remastered version will take place not in India, but at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2025, a decision that has left many fans disappointed.

On Friday (August 8), the FHF revealed that Sholay will debut in North America at the 50th edition of TIFF on September 6, 2025, at the prestigious Roy Thomson Hall, which has a seating capacity of 1,800. The announcement, made via social media, was accompanied by a special golden jubilee poster.

They wrote, “Indian cinematic epic ‘Sholay’ (1975), directed by Ramesh Sippy, celebrates 50 years with the North American Premiere of the restored version at TIFF! A gala event worthy of the film’s legendary status.” (sic)

Celebration Abroad, Disappointment at Home

While this exclusive screening is a proud moment for Indian cinema’s global recognition, it has also triggered frustration among local audiences who had hoped to watch the 4K restoration in their own theatres. Many recall that the 70mm restored edition of Sholay was successfully re-released in India back in 2005 for its 30th anniversary.

Yet, despite the enthusiasm, neither FHF nor Sippy Films has announced any plans for an Indian theatrical release, leaving the home crowd to wonder if they will get to relive the magic on the big screen anytime soon.