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As Sholay marks its 50th anniversary this August, fans are revisiting not just its legendary dialogues and unforgettable characters, but also the behind-the-scenes details that shaped its legacy. One revelation that has sparked fresh curiosity is the cast’s original paychecks. Contrary to popular belief, Amitabh Bachchan was not the highest-paid actor in the film. That distinction went to Dharmendra, whose portrayal of Veeru remains one of Bollywood’s most beloved performances.
Released on 15 August 1975, Sholay was a slow starter at the box office but eventually became a cultural phenomenon. Directed by Ramesh Sippy and written by Salim-Javed, the film featured an ensemble cast including Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan, Sanjeev Kumar, Hema Malini, Amjad Khan, and Jaya Bachchan. Now, five decades later, the salary breakdown of these stars offers a fascinating glimpse into the economics of Bollywood’s golden era.
Who Earned What: Cast Salary Breakdown
1. Dharmendra (Veeru) – ₹1,50,000
The highest-paid actor in the film, Dharmendra was already a major star by 1975. His charismatic portrayal of Veeru, the fun-loving and loyal friend, earned him top billing and the biggest paycheck.
2. Sanjeev Kumar (Thakur Baldev Singh) – ₹1,25,000
Known for his gravitas and versatility, Sanjeev Kumar played the role of the vengeful ex-policeman with quiet intensity. His fee reflected his stature in the industry at the time.
3. Amitabh Bachchan (Jai) – ₹1,00,000
Though now considered the face of Sholay, Amitabh Bachchan was still rising in popularity when the film was made. His role as Jai, the brooding counterpart to Veeru, became iconic, but his paycheck was modest compared to Dharmendra’s.
4. Hema Malini (Basanti) – ₹75,000
Hema Malini’s spirited performance as Basanti, the talkative tanga driver, added charm and humor to the film. Her fee was reflective of her star power and the popularity she enjoyed in the mid-70s.
5. Amjad Khan (Gabbar Singh) – ₹50,000
Despite being a newcomer, Amjad Khan’s portrayal of Gabbar Singh redefined villainy in Indian cinema. His relatively low fee belied the impact his character would have on generations of moviegoers.
6. Jaya Bachchan (Radha) – ₹35,000
The lowest-paid among the main cast, Jaya Bachchan played the quiet, grieving widow Radha. Her understated performance added emotional depth to the film, even though her role was limited in screen time.
7. Asrani (Jailor) – ₹15,000
Asrani’s brief but memorable role as the British-style jailor became a cult favorite. His comic timing and quirky character added levity to the otherwise intense narrative.
Why These Numbers Matter Today
- They reflect the hierarchy of stardom in 1975, with Dharmendra leading the pack
- Amitabh Bachchan’s lower fee highlights his then-emerging status in Bollywood
- Amjad Khan’s modest pay contrasts sharply with the lasting impact of Gabbar Singh
- Jaya Bachchan’s minimal fee underscores the gender and role-based disparities of the era
- The salaries offer insight into how commercial value was assigned to actors and roles
Sholay’s Enduring Legacy
Even fifty years later, Sholay continues to dominate pop culture. From Jai and Veeru’s friendship to Gabbar’s chilling menace, the film remains a benchmark for storytelling, character development, and cinematic scale. Its cast, many of whom went on to become legends, laid the foundation for a new era in Indian cinema.
The salary revelations add another layer to the film’s rich history, reminding audiences that even the most iconic creations have humble beginnings. As Sholay celebrates its golden jubilee, it’s not just the film but the stories behind it that continue to captivate.
Sources: Mathrubhumi, News18, NDTV, MSN India, Great Andhra.
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