How Amitabh's dream came true!

How Amitabh's dream came true!
Friday, October 20, 2006 12:38 IST
By Santa Banta News Network
Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan will reverse roles to play a bloodthirsty bandit in the remake of one of the industry's greatest classics in which he originally played a lovable hero.

Bachchan, 64, said in recent interviews that even the first time round, he wanted to play Gabbar Singh, the tobacco-chewing, foul-mouthed villain of Sholay.

But he was cast as one of two reformed crooks who save a village from the bandit in the 1975 cult film.

Newcomer Amjad Khan bagged Gabbar's role and became a Bollywood legend for his portrayal of what became Indian cinema's best-known villain.

The remake is called Ram Gopal Varma ke Sholay to make it clear that the film is his interpretation of the classic.

"It's a distinctive Sholay, set in a different time-zone," Varma, a top Bollywood director known for making unconventional movies, said.

Varma's Sholay is not set in the treacherous ravines of India's northern badlands as in the original version but in the country's commercial and entertainment hub of Mumbai.

Neither does his Gabbar Singh command a ragtag gang of thieves but heads a well-organised crime syndicate.

"I am the biggest fan of Sholay and Gabbar," said Varma, who has watched India's best 'curry western' 27 times. "Over the years the legend of Gabbar has grown immensely."

Varma says the choice of Bachchan to play Gabbar Singh was natural keeping in mind the complexities of the role. The lead pair is played by Ajay Devgan and newcomer Mohit Ahlawat.

Filming of the remake is underway in studios in Mumbai and it is slated to open in May.

"We needed someone important to play Amjad Khan's role and who better than Bachchan himself," said the maverick director.

Varma's villain, looking markedly older than the original Gabbar, wields a scorpion-headed stick--instead of the leather belt that the bandit in the original version lashed around--and has a prominent scar across his nose.

"He looks menacing and evil. It gives him an effective and authoritative look," said Varma, who has got Bachchan to wear a blue lens in one eye and green in the other.

Varma said when he offered the role to Bachchan, who has acted in over 150 films portraying the rebel and the honest police officer, the star laughed it off as a joke.

"He accepted it once I narrated to him my vision of Sholay. Seeing Bachchan play Gabbar, Amjad Khan will be eclipsed from people's memories," Varma said.
Varun Dhawan Unveils First Poster of 'Nain Matakka' Featuring Keerthy Suresh!

Varun Dhawan's upcoming film Baby John is already creating waves in the entertainment world. The latest buzz surrounds the highly anticipated track "Nain Matakka," and the excitement reached new heights when Varun shared the

Friday, November 22, 2024
'Agni' Trailer Unveiled: A Tribute to Firefighters' Bravery and Sacrifice!

The much-anticipated trailer for Agni, directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Rahul Dholakia, was released on Thursday, offering a gripping look into the world of firefighters, their bravery, and the sacrifices they make to protect

Friday, November 22, 2024
Sara Ali Khan Shares Fun BTS Moments from Ad Shoot, Invites Fans to Let Their Spirits Soar!

Bollywood actress Sara Ali Khan recently took to Instagram to share a delightful behind-the-scenes (BTS) glimpse from her latest advertisement shoot, revealing her cheerful mood and creative spirit. In a playful and heartwarming post, Sara shared a video

Friday, November 22, 2024
Kartik Aaryan Enjoys Quality Time with 'Sea, Sand, and Sun' at IFFI Goa!

Bollywood heartthrob Kartik Aaryan, who is currently in Goa for the prestigious International Film Festival of India (IFFI) and Filmazaar, took a moment to unwind and connect with nature. The actor shared a series of serene pictures on his Instagram, showcasing

Friday, November 22, 2024
Shehnaaz Gill Starts Shooting for Punjabi Film: A New Journey Begins!

Actress and social media sensation Shehnaaz Gill is all set to embark on a new chapter in her career, as she commences shooting for her upcoming Punjabi film. The actress shared her excitement with her fans on Instagram, marking this milestone

Friday, November 22, 2024
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT