‘Sholay’ in 4K: Bologna Film Festival to Host Premiere of Restored Classic

Ramesh Sippy’s ‘Sholay,’ a landmark film featuring Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra, is set for a theatrical comeback. The restored 4K version will premiere at the Il Cinema Ritrovato Festival in Bologna, Italy, on June 27, 2025. The screening will take place in Piazza Maggiore, in partnership with the Film Heritage Foundation and Sippy Films. Audiences will have the opportunity to experience the film with its original ending and previously removed scenes. Amitabh Bachchan recalled the film’s emotional journey and its significance in Indian cinema. Dharmendra celebrated ‘Sholay’ as an unparalleled cinematic achievement, noting the memorable characters and scenes. The film, released on August 15, 1975, starred Hema Malini, Jaya Bachchan, Sanjeev Kumar, Amjad Khan, Asrani, and Mac Mohan. The re-release aims to bring the iconic film to a new generation.