June 14, 2025 — Mumbai — In a heartwarming revelation that resonates with Bollywood lore, veteran star Dharmendra recently opened up about the pivotal role he played in bringing Amitabh Bachchan
aboard Sholay (1975) as Jai—a character that would change the trajectory of Indian cinema.
From the dusty trails of Ramgarh to the annals of legendary storytelling, Sholay is etched in cinematic history. It chronicled the partnership of Jai and Veeru, two small-time criminals hired to protect a village from the dreaded dacoit Gabbar Singh.
But what many didn’t know is that Shatrughan Sinha—another renowned action star—was originally earmarked for Jai. That changed thanks to a nudge from Dharmendra himself.
1. The Backstory: Sinha, Bachchan, and a Recasting Surprise
During pre-production, the part of Jai was first offered to Shatrughan Sinha. But due to scheduling conflicts and creative differences, he opted out. According to Dharmendra, Sinha’s refusal was pivotal—it opened the door for Bachchan to enter the frame.
This change of plans laid the foundation for what would become one of cinema’s greatest on-screen duos. Amitabh Bachchan, though not yet a superstar in 1975, carried potential that Dharmendra recognized early.
2. Dharmendra’s Role: “This Boy Has Something Special”
In a recent interview with ANI, Dharmendra shared intimate details of how Bachchan impressed him:
“He used to come to meet me… sit next to me… I told Ramesh Sippy, ‘This is a new boy. Judging by his voice, he can do great work… I liked his inner desire, the beauty of loving himself… take him.’”
By placing his confidence in Bachchan, Dharmendra effectively altered Sholay’s creative course. He vouches not just for Amitabh’s craft but for his deep-rooted self-belief—a spark that would ignite the character of Jai.
3. Jai and Veeru: A Pair for the Ages
The camaraderie of Jai and Veeru wasn’t merely scripted—it birthed real-life brotherhood that powered the film’s popularity. Jai, the brooding, introspective hero, and Veeru, the boisterous sidekick, complemented each other perfectly.
It’s testimony to the fact that some onscreen alliances are born from genuine bonds—Dharmendra essentially ‘saved’ the film’s central hero by backing Bachchan.
4. The Film That Became an Era
When Sholay released on August 15, 1975, it wasn’t an instant blockbuster. Reviews were mixed, and box office earnings were sluggish initially. But strong word-of-mouth, iconic dialogues (“Kitne aadmi the?”;
“Basanti, in kutton ke samne mat nachna.”), and an unforgettable soundtrack helped it break records. The film ran for five years at Mumbai’s Minerva Theatre and became the highest-grossing Indian film of its time.
Today, Sholay is a cultural pillar—studied, celebrated, even listed by the British Film Institute as one of the greatest Indian films ever made. Its themes of friendship, revenge, and honor transcend generations.
5. Dharmendra’s Continuing Legacy
At 88, Dharmendra continues to be one of Bollywood’s most cherished icons. He recently remarked, “I have yet to give the best”—a statement of humility from a cinematic titan.
He’s gearing up for two highly anticipated projects:
- Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan, slated for release on October 2, 2025, promises an intense narrative befitting Raghavan’s taut style.
- Maine Pyaar Kiya Phir Se, set to reunite him with Arbaaz Khan after 27 years, scheduled for a November 2025 release.
Even after decades in the spotlight, Dharmendra’s influence stretches from his work ethic and iconic performances to his behind-the-scenes mentorship of future legends.
6. Why This Anecdote Still Matters
The story of how Big B became part of Sholay isn’t just Hollywood drama—it’s a real-world lesson in mentorship, intuition, and generosity. In an industry where roles are often defined by star power, Dharmendra’s gesture was both bold and selfless.
He could have insisted on maintaining Veeru’s pairing with a name more prominent than Bachchan’s at the time. Instead, he chose to uplift a newer actor. His faith proved well-placed; Bachchan’s performance as Jai propelled him to superstardom.
This isn’t just Bollywood history—it’s evidence that an established actor can shape the narrative by recognizing and supporting emerging talent. It reinforces the importance of creative trust and generosity in collaborative art.
In Retrospect and Beyond
Dharmendra’s candid interview—the kind that blooms from honest conversation—brings to light how small decisions can have seismic consequences in film history.
A whispered recommendation, an off‑hand comment about someone’s voice, a belief in another’s potential…these details shaped one of Bollywood’s most iconic pairings.
From the rubble of production drama and casting reshuffles, Sholay emergeVeeru and Jai behind the scenes as a genre-defining magnum opus. It became more than the sum of its parts because of the human connections behind it.
And at the heart of that story is Dharmendra, a man willing to forego ego to support talent—a lesson in leadership, humility, and vision.
| Insight | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Casting shift | Jai was initially offered to Shatrughan Sinha, who declined due to scheduling and creative issues |
| Dharmendra’s influence | Personally vouched for Bachchan to director Ramesh Sippy, praising his voice and inner drive |
| Legendary duo | Jai and Veeru became entrenched in pop culture, thanks to authentic chemistry |
| Bhool slo-mover | Sholay grew through word-of-mouth, eventually becoming the highest-grossing Indian film of its period |
| Ongoing career | Dharmendra, aged 88, still stars in projects like Ikkis and Maine Pyaar Kiya Phir Se |
