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‘Sholay’ releases in Pakistan for the first time

Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra in 'Sholay'
Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra in ‘Sholay’

‘Sholay,’ (1975) starring Amitabh Bachchan,��Dharmendra, and Amjad Khan, and directed by Ramesh Sippy,��is��a huge cult classic, still remembered for its��iconic songs, action, and dialogues. It’s��been forty years��since it��first released in India,��but Pakistan saw it release for the first time, in a grand premiere��at Karachi’s Neuplex, on��Friday.

Geo Films and Mandviwalla Entertainment released the film in Pakistan, and was attended by many celebrities. According to India Today, film critic Omar Alavi said, “Sholay has its legion of fans in Pakistan including that generation which grew old watching Indian movies on VCR’s when�� it was illegal to screen them in Pakistan. We have heard so much about the movie from our parents and older relatives so for them to watch the movie for the first time on the big screen in 3D��and 2D is an unforgettable experience.”

The exporter and distributor of the film, Nadeem Mandviwalla says that he expects the film to bring in good numbers, due to its evergreen effect. “Even though we have some top releases��on May 1 including ‘Avengers: Age of Ultron’ but ‘Sholay’ will continue to draw its audiences because of its evergreen effect.”

Popular actor and stylist Adnan Baig also said watching the iconic characters of Jai, Veeru, and Gabbar “was an exciting experience.” Theatre owners are also making a huge profit, recreating��the village scenario from the film, giving cinema goers a chance to get photographed with these characters.

‘Sholay’ is also famous for Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra’s friendship ballad, ‘Yeh Dosti Hum Nahin Todenge,’ and Hema Malini’s gregarious character, Basanti.