The Stars of Blockbuster ‘Sholay’ Charged Less Than What Actors Earn for a Single Ad Today! Know the Truth

Whenever the history of Hindi cinema is discussed, there’s one film that always finds mention — the 1975 classic Sholay, directed by Ramesh Sippy. But do you know how much the star cast of this iconic film was paid? If not, today we bring you all the details.

Sholay was not just a blockbuster — it was a cultural phenomenon. Jai-Veeru’s friendship, Gabbar’s terror, Basanti’s liveliness, and Thakur’s revenge — each character and every dialogue still feels fresh on the lips. But do you know how much the actors were paid for this classic? Let’s find out.

Dharmendra Was Paid the Highest

The ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood, Dharmendra, who played the role of ‘Veeru’, was one of the biggest superstars of that time. He received the highest fee in the cast — ₹1,50,000. In today’s world of crores, this may sound like a small amount, but in 1975, it was considered a significant sum. His portrayal of Veeru became iconic, and people still associate him with that role.

Big B Earned ₹1,25,000

Playing the role of Jai, Veeru’s close friend, Amitabh Bachchan (Big B) was paid ₹1,25,000 for the film. He was still rising in his career at that point. Sholay gave his acting a new height and immortalized him in the hearts of the audience.

Gabbar Singh Was Paid ₹50,000

What can one say about Gabbar Singh! Amjad Khan brought the role to life in such a powerful way that the villain became even more popular than the heroes. He was paid only ₹50,000, but his performance proved that it's not the role, but the actor who makes a lasting impact.

The Dream Girl’s Pay

Everyone remembers Sholay’s Basanti — the feisty tonga driver played by Hema Malini. Her character became so iconic that people still dress like her at Bollywood-themed parties. She was paid ₹75,000 for the role.

Jaya Bachchan Got the Least

Perhaps the most surprising fact is that lead actress Jaya Bhaduri (who later became Jaya Bachchan after marrying Big B), received only ₹35,000 for her role as Radha — a silent, emotional, and deeply impactful character. Despite being one of the key roles, she was paid the least.

Their Dedication Shines Brighter Than Fees

Today, when actors charge crores for a single film or ad, it’s truly humbling to see how the Sholay team, with limited resources and modest fees, created a timeless legacy. Even 50 years later, Sholay still shines bright in Indian cinema history.

Record-Breaking Box Office

Sholay was made on a budget of ₹3 crores and sold 15 crore tickets, breaking all box office records. The film ran in theatres for six consecutive years — a record that has not been broken to date, not even by blockbusters like Baahubali 2, KGF, Pushpa 2, or RRR.

Dialogues That Still Echo

Sholay is known for its legendary dialogues. Here are some fan favorites:

• “Tumhara naam kya hai, Basanti?” (Veeru)

• “Kitne aadmi the?” (Gabbar Singh)

• “Basanti, in kutto ke saamne mat naachna.” (Veeru)

• “Itna sannata kyun hai bhai?” (Imam Saheb)

• “Humein zyada baat karne ki aadat toh hai nahi.” (Basanti)
• “Hum angrezon ke zamane ke jailer hain.” (Jailer)

• “Bahut katiili nachaniya hai.” (Gabbar)

• “Jail mein chakki peesing, and peesing, and peesing.” (Veeru)

• “Sardar maine aapka namak khaya hai.” (Kaalia)... “Toh ab goli kha.” (Gabbar)

• “Yahan se 50-50 kos door jab bachcha raat ko rota hai, toh maa kehti hai — so ja beta, nahi toh Gabbar aa jayega.” (Gabbar)

Evergreen Songs

Songs are the soul of any film, and Sholay’s songs still carry the same charm:

• “Yeh Dosti Hum Nahi Todenge” – The ultimate friendship anthem for Jai-Veeru, still widely played on Friendship Day.
• “Holi Ke Din Dil Khil Jaate Hain” – A Holi celebration song is still played during the festival.
• “Koi Haseena Jab” – Veeru sings this to woo Basanti; even today, lovers use it to charm their partners.
• “Mehbooba Mehbooba” – Sung by R.D. Burman, this iconic item song remains a favorite.
• “Haan Jab Tak Hai Jaan” – A heartfelt song sung by Basanti for Veeru, known for Hema Malini’s memorable dance performance.

Sholay was not just a film — it was the identity of an entire era. And the stars of that era gave their soul to the cinema, without worrying about their fees. That’s why Sholay is still alive — in our hearts, and in our memories.

Read also:

• Panchayat Season 4 Screening: Jitendra Kumar, RJ Mahvash & Stars Grace Event
• SardaarJi 3 Controversy: FWICE Urges PM Modi to Cancel Passports of Diljit & Makers
• Metro In Dino Song 'Ishq Hai Ya Tharak': Sara-Aditya Shine, Fatima Turns Up Heat
• First Copy Stars Speak: Munawar, Krystle & Ashi Share Behind-the-Scenes Moments