The purists may balk at this development but a sequel to Sholay is being planned.

Jayantilal Gada and Sascha Sippy, who produced the 3D version of the film, are already working on details of the 1975 film.

`Since the 3D version took form, the makers have got good feedback and they think it would certainly be a good idea to have a sequel of the cult film. The duo has already reached the script-writing stage and looking to cast new actors in the ambitious project,` says a well-placed source.

The production team is working on the pre-production and have been in script reading sessions.

A crew member adds, `Gada and Sippy feels the recall value of the film is so high that it can easily convert into a franchise where the two important characters -- Jai and Veeru -- can explore new issues. The sequel would get into their escapades.`

Interestingly, the character of Jai (played by Amitabh Bachchan) died in the climax of the film.


Gada confirms the news, `Talks are on and things need to be worked out. There is a lot of equity in Sholay. We will consider converting this into a franchise soon.`

Against the idea
The original director of the film, Ramesh Sippy, who's already in dispute with the makers of the 3D version, is not too thrilled about a sequel. His wife Kiran Joneja Sippy says, `I am not in favour of it and I don't think Mr Sippy is either. Classics are not be touched and also sequels are not made after 30 years when the original cast is in a very different space. I don't know what to say because no one is God to predict and unless they come up with something extremely interesting with a brilliant star cast, I don't see it happening.`