It Was Amitabh Bachchan's Dance Skills That Got Him Role In Ramesh Sippy's 'Sholay'
Amitabh Bachchan's dancing skills in a bus scene from 'Bombay to Goa' landed him the role of Jai in 'Sholay'. This was revealed by director Ramesh Sippy during an episode of 'KBC.'
Amitabh Bachchan is a legendary figure in Bollywood, captivating audiences for decades with his films and charismatic presence. Some of his most beloved movies include 'Zanjeer', 'Sholay', 'Muqaddar Ka Sikandar', 'Naseeb', and 'Amar Akbar Anthony', among others.
Interestingly, it was his dancing skills in a bus scene from 'Bombay to Goa' that landed him the role of Jai in 'Sholay'. This was revealed by director Ramesh Sippy during an episode of 'Kaun Banega Crorepati' (KBC).
How Amitabh Bachchan got the role of Jai in Sholay
When Amitabh, often referred to as Big B, asked Sippy about the casting decision, Sippy explained that writers Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar had recommended him. They praised Bachchan's performance in 'Zanjeer', noting that despite his tall stature, he delivered an impressive dance performance in the bus scene of 'Bombay to Goa', which helped secure his role in 'Sholay'.
About Sholay
'Sholay' is considered one of Bollywood's cult classics, featuring a stellar cast including Sanjeev Kumar, Dharmendra, Amjad Khan, and Hema Malini. Released on August 15, 1975, the film became a massive success, holding its record for 20 years and grossing Rs 35 crores at the box office. Although it had a slow start in theaters, it eventually became a blockbuster. The film is currently available on Amazon Prime.
For 'Sholay', Ramesh Sippy won the Filmfare Award for Best Film in the Last 50 Years of Indian Cinema, while MS Shinde received the Best Editor award.
Amitabh Bachchan's work front
Amitabh Bachchan was last seen in the Prabhas and Deepika Padukone starrer dystopian drama 'Kalki 2898 AD.' The superstar earned accolades from all corners for his spectacular performance as Ashwatthamma.
He will next be seen in Rajinikanth starrer 'Vettaiyan.' The film marks the duo's collaboration after thirty years. They were last seen together in the Bollywood family drama 'Hum.'