Sholay – The Final Cut, the long-awaited restored 4K version of one of India’s greatest cinematic masterpieces, is finally set to release across the country on December 12, 2025. In a historic move, the film will open in 1,500 screens, making it the biggest re-release in Indian, and possibly global-cinema history.
What makes this release even more monumental is that audiences will, for the first time ever, witness the film’s original ending, which was altered before its 1975 release due to censorship during India’s Emergency period. As Sholay celebrates 50 years, this restored edition promises the most authentic experience yet for both long-time fans and a new generation of viewers.
Sholay’s re-release CONFIRMED
The Film Heritage Foundation officially announced the release on X, writing, “The wait is finally over!! “Sholay – The Final Cut” restored by Film Heritage Foundation in 4K with the original ending being seen for the first time is slated to be released by Sippy Films in 1500 screens across India on December 12, 2025!!!”
The original climax – long discussed but never publicly viewed on the big screen – features Thakur (Sanjeev Kumar) killing Gabbar Singh (Amjad Khan) using his spiked shoes as an act of vengeance. However, during the Emergency, the censor board deemed the scene excessively violent, forcing the makers to modify it. This newly restored version reinstates director Ramesh Sippy’s initial vision, offering audiences the raw emotional and dramatic intensity the film was meant to convey.
The re-release forms a key part of Sholay’s 50th anniversary celebrations. Earlier this year, the film was also showcased at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), drawing international acclaim. With its ensemble cast – Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Jaya Bachchan, Hema Malini, Sanjeev Kumar, and Amjad Khan – the film remains an enduring cultural phenomenon.
About Sholay
Released in 1975, Sholay transformed Indian cinema, blending Western influences, action, emotion, and unforgettable characters into an epic narrative that became a nationwide sensation. Its dialogues and performances are now embedded in Indian pop culture. Although new films have surpassed its box-office totals, Sholay still holds the record for the most-viewed Indian film in history, with more than 25 crore admissions worldwide.
With Sholay – The Final Cut, audiences will finally watch the film as it was originally envisioned nearly fifty years ago!