The makers of Sholay have officially confirmed the release date of the long-awaited restored version of the legendary 1975 film. Featuring director Ramesh Sippy’s originally intended climax, the 4K restoration will arrive in Indian theatres on December 12, 2025—marking the first time audiences will witness the ending exactly as it was envisioned five decades ago.
Restored 4K Version Brings Back Sippy’s Intended Vision
The Film Heritage Foundation, in collaboration with Sippy Films, has meticulously restored Sholay from rare archival materials. The team sourced a colour reversal print from London, discovered the original camera negatives, and even recovered previously lost deleted scenes from a warehouse in Mumbai.
The outcome is a 4K restoration revived in its original 70mm format, designed to give modern viewers a theatrical experience true to the film’s original scale.
Worldwide Festival Applause Ahead of India Release
The restored version made its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) earlier this year, followed by a scheduled Australian premiere at the Indian Film Festival of Sydney (IFFS) in October. With its December release in India, the film is now set for a wide public viewing.
A Long-Lost Ending Returns After 50 Years
One of the most anticipated features of the restored version is the return of the original climax, in which Thakur kills Gabbar Singh. This ending was replaced in 1975 due to censorship restrictions imposed during the Emergency.
Speaking to Bollywood Hungama, director Ramesh Sippy recalled the constraints he faced:
“In 1975, it was the time of the Emergency, so we couldn’t argue too much. The end I put in had to be shot at the last minute.”
He expressed dissatisfaction with the forced change, calling it a standard, predictable ending of that era—where the police intervene and restore order. He added humorously:
“The Censor officials said, ‘He’s an officer. He shouldn’t take the law into his own hands.’ Actually, I can’t say hands… he didn’t have any.”
Dharmendra’s Recovery Brings Emotional Context to the Announcement
The announcement comes shortly after veteran actor Dharmendra, who played Veeru in the iconic film, was discharged from the hospital following a health concern. The beloved star is reportedly recovering well at home.
A Cinematic Legacy Returns to the Big Screen
With its restored visuals, rediscovered scenes, and the reinstated original ending, Sholay’s 2025 release promises a monumental moment for Indian cinema. Audiences will finally be able to see the film as Ramesh Sippy imagined it—complete with its intended emotional weight, technical brilliance, and storytelling depth.
