Ramesh Sippy Reveals Salim-Javed Started Charging '10 Times' More After Sholay Success

Veteran director Ramesh Sippy made the iconic film Sholay, which remains equally loved even after 50 years of its release. The movie starred Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra and was written by the legendary

screenwriting duo Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar. Now, in a fresh interview, Ramesh Sippy has opened up about how Sholay changed things for Salim–Javed.

Speaking to Free Press Journal, Sippy recalled, “They started with me on a monthly salary. Before Sholay, they asked, ‘Can we have a larger amount?’ I agreed, and they quoted a figure. I said okay.” He further continued and revealed how Sholay marked a turning point in their career and how they began to charge higher after the movie’s massive success.

“Then they went on to take 10 times the amount. Even in the next film, Shaan, I paid 10 times the amount,” he revealed, adding, “Sholay being such a big hit, they deserved it. They should be paid. So if you are the maker, you make a judgement and take a call. If it is a fair thing, then why not?”

Sholay to re-release in theatres

The landmark Indian classic Sholay is set to hit theatres once again, this time in a fully restored 4K version titled Sholay – The Final Cut. The nationwide re-release, scheduled for December 12, 2025, marks the film’s 50th anniversary and will be showcased across 1,500 theatres.

What makes this release historic is the reinstatement of the film’s original uncut ending—screened publicly for the first time in five decades. Ahead of its 1975 release, the climax was altered due to strict censorship imposed during India’s Emergency era. Now, viewers will finally be able to watch Sholay exactly as director Ramesh Sippy intended.

A film that redefined Indian cinema

Released in 1975, Sholay has long cemented its place as one of Indian cinema’s most influential films. Despite being overtaken by later blockbusters in earnings, it still holds the distinction of being the most-viewed Indian film in history, with its dialogues, characters, and scenes woven deeply into the cultural memory of the nation.

With Sholay – The Final Cut, a new generation will experience the film’s power on the big screen—restored, uncut, and as unforgettable as ever.