Hema Malini Recalls Sholay: A Village Hut, Three Dresses and Basanti’s Simplicity

Hema Malini Recalls Sholay: Even after 50 years, Ramesh Sippy’s iconic Sholay is a film that people don’t just watch, but revisit time and again. Every character in this film left a lasting impression—be it the friendship of Jai–Veeru or the terror of Gabbar Singh. But among all these, one of the most vibrant and colorful characters was ‘Basanti,’ (Hema Malini Basanti 50 years) brought to life by actress Hema Malini. Such was her charm that people still fondly call her by that name.
Recently, in an interview, Hema Malini shared some precious memories of the film. Let’s hear what she had to say…

‘Sholay’ has now completed 50 years. What would you like to say?

I can’t believe so many years have passed. I consider myself fortunate to still witness the glory of Sholay. Today, when even the younger generation enjoys the film, (Hema Malini recalls Sholay stunts) I feel that the effort we put in came straight from the heart. The bond with everyone remains the same even today. Sholay is my family, my identity—Basanti will always stay with me.

Do people still demand Basanti’s dialogues during election rallies?

Yes, people often demand it. In fact, many attend rallies just for that. Whatever political points I make on stage for my party are fine, but in the end, they always want my dialogue. And the moment I deliver one from Sholay, (Hema Malini initial role disappointment) the entire crowd goes crazy with joy. This kind of craze has never happened with any other film.

How did you feel about the role of Basanti? We’ve heard that initially, you didn’t like it.

Yes, that’s true. When Ramesh Sippy first narrated Basanti’s role to me, I felt it was a small part. But he explained that while it may be small, (Hema Malini off-screen romance Dharmendra) it was very powerful. Basanti was cheerful, fearless, and full of life. She was like a breath of fresh air in the film—whenever she appeared, people smiled. And the chemistry with Veeru was loved by everyone. Even today, people identify me as Basanti—what could be a bigger honor than that? (Sholay 50th anniversary Basanti reflection)

What was your experience with the costumes and simplicity of that era?

In Sholay, I had only three dresses, and there was no designer. Unlike the glamour of today, there was none of that then. Ramesh ji insisted the clothes should look soiled, unpressed, (Hema Malini stunts Sholay horse cart) and real to match the authenticity. Working in that rustic village atmosphere, in complete simplicity, was the true beauty of Sholay.

How challenging was the shooting for you?

The shooting was full of challenges. Everything was outdoors, with no vanity vans. We filmed for hours under the scorching sun. The famous ‘Jab Tak Hai Jaan’ scene was shot barefoot for 15 days in the heat. At that time, we didn’t have access to luxury facilities, (Baseline Sholay creative control controversy) but those days were truly beautiful. All the actors would prepare in village huts—that experience is rare to find today.

Was it difficult for you to deliver such long dialogues?

Not at all. I had mastered the Hindi language, and Basanti’s long, fast-paced dialogues were written so beautifully that each sentence flowed into the next. That made memorizing and delivering them easy for me.

Why do you think Basanti’s character became so popular?

Basanti was an ordinary yet independent village girl. She earned her living by driving a tonga (horse-cart). At that time—50 years ago—it was a big deal for a heroine to be shown as so strong and self-reliant. It sent out a clear message: girls must be independent.

What, according to you, was the greatest strength of Sholay?

The screenplay and equal importance given to every character. Whether it was a big role or a single line, audiences remembered it all. The immortal dialogues, Gabbar Singh, Jai–Veeru’s friendship, Basanti’s humor, Mausiji, Asrani ji, Jagdeep—everyone together made Sholay legendary.

What would you say about your love story and on-screen chemistry with Dharmendra?

We worked together in many films, and our friendship eventually blossomed into love. Even in Sholay, people loved our chemistry. Dharmendra ji is a wonderful person, and working with him was always fun.

How was it working with Amjad Khan (Gabbar Singh)?

Amjad ji was a very dignified and hardworking actor. It was as if the character of Gabbar had truly possessed him. In one scene, he grabbed my hand so tightly that it turned black—but he kept apologizing again and again. Even today, no villain can match the impact of Gabbar Singh.

In your opinion, what made the film immortal in the hearts of the audience?

Sholay succeeded, but no one can say it was because of them alone. Salim–Javed came in during Seeta Aur Geeta, but Sholay was their full-fledged work. No single actor or artist can claim that the film worked because of them. I cannot say that Sholay was successful only because of Basanti—not at all. Every character, (Nothing like Sholay Hema Malini) every performance contributed to its charm. Two characters defined friendship; there was a villain, there were heroes, there was comedy—I played that part. Then there was Asrani ji, Jagdeep, and so many others. Even Mac Mohan ji’s one line as Sambha became iconic. Whether it was Dharmendra ji or Amitabh Bachchan ji, no one can say it was solely because of them. Sholay was made great by everyone together.

Should Sholay ever be remade?

Absolutely not! Attempting to recreate Sholay would be wrong. Its innocence and identity can never be repeated. This film is one of a kind—that’s why people continue to love it even today

Popular Dialogues of Basanti from the Film “Sholay”

• “Mera naam Basanti hai… Basanti.”

• “Yunki, yeh kaun bola?”

• “Humein zyada baat karne ki aadat to hai nahi.”

• “Chal Dhanno, aaj teri Basanti ki izzat ka sawaal hai.”

• “Basanti, in kutton ke saamne mat naachna!” (This dialogue is of Veeru, but became immortal because of Basanti’s character.)

Sholay FAQ

1. Is there a new 4K restoration of Sholay available in 2025?

Yes, Sholay has been digitally restored in 4K, with improved sound and visuals, making it available for streaming and select theatrical re-releases in 2025.

2. Is Sholay being re-released in cinemas in 2025?

Yes, as part of its 50-year celebration, Sholay is set for limited screenings in select Indian cities and international film festivals in 2025.

3. Did any cast members attend the Sholay 50th anniversary events?

Yes, Hema Malini, Jaya Bachchan, and Dharmendra attended special commemorative events celebrating Sholay’s golden jubilee in 2025.

4. Is Sholay available on OTT platforms in 2025?

Yes, Sholay is streaming on popular OTT platforms like Amazon Prime and Zee5 with remastered picture and sound in 2025.

5. Has Sholay inspired any recent Bollywood films or web series?

Yes, several recent action films and web series in 2024–2025 have drawn inspiration from Sholay’s storyline, iconic dialogues, and characters.

6. Who directed the film Sholay?

Sholay was directed by Ramesh Sippy and released in 1975.

7. Who played the role of Gabbar Singh in Sholay?

Amjad Khan portrayed the iconic villain Gabbar Singh, delivering one of Bollywood’s most memorable performances.

8. Where was Sholay filmed?

Most of Sholay was filmed in the village of Ramnagaram in Karnataka, which has since become a popular tourist spot.

9. How successful was Sholay at the box office?

Sholay was one of the highest-grossing Indian films of all time and ran for over five years in some theaters.

10. Why is Sholay considered a classic?

Sholay is considered a classic for its perfect blend of action, drama, romance, memorable dialogues, and unforgettable characters.

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Tags: Hema Malini as Basanti in Sholay | Sholay 50th anniversary Hema quote | Sholay box office lifetime gross | Sholay footfalls record | The Sholay Girl