Sholay, a film etched in Indian cinematic history, is approaching a significant milestone. On August 15, 2025, it will celebrate its 50th anniversary, a testament to its enduring popularity across generations. The film continues to resonate with audiences, evoking strong emotions and cherished memories.
The film’s influence was so profound that even its re-release at the box office after many years generated substantial revenue, and viewers flocked to theaters to experience it repeatedly.
Interestingly, Sholay also has a link to the later film, 3 Idiots. The actor Sharman Joshi, who portrayed Raju in 3 Idiots, had a familial connection to Sholay.
Sharman Joshi’s father, Arvind Joshi, had a cameo role in Sholay, which was released in 1975. He played the elder son of Thakur, the character portrayed by Sanjeev Kumar. His appearance was during a flashback sequence revealing Thakur’s past.
In the film, Arvind Joshi’s character is killed by Gabbar’s gunshot. This scene is considered a pivotal moment in Sholay, leading to a significant shift in the narrative. Arvind’s role was relatively brief.
Arvind Joshi made contributions to both Gujarati and Bollywood cinema. His legacy in the theater world is greatly remembered. His son, Sharman Joshi, is a prominent figure in Bollywood, having starred in numerous films, including 3 Idiots. Arvind Joshi passed away in 2021, and his son continues to uphold his acting legacy.