49 years later! Sholay's deleted Gabbar scene goes viral – Here's why it was axed

Entertainmnet News: Nearly five decades after its release, Ramesh Sippy's Sholay continues to resonate with audiences as a recently uncovered deleted scene featuring Gabbar Singh stirs discussions about censorship and cinematic impact.

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Edited By: Mahi Mishra
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49 years later! Sholay's deleted Gabbar scene goes viral – Here's why it was axed (Instagram/ @oldisgoldfilms )

Entertainmnet News: Even after almost fifty years,Ramesh Sippy’s 1975 classic Sholay continues to captivate audiences. Recently re-released in theaters, the film attracted massive crowds, reaffirming its timeless charm. While many iconic scenes and dialogues are ingrained in Indian cinema history, few are aware that several scenes were cut prior to its release. One such deleted scene, featuring the notorious Gabbar Singh, is now trending on social media nearly five decades later.

The Scene That Never Made It to Theaters

A viral post from the Instagram account “Old is Gold” showcased a rare image from Sholay, depicting Gabbar Singh (portrayed by Amjad Khan) gripping Ahmed (played by Sachin Pilgaonkar) by the hair in a chilling display of brutality. The tense backdrop shows a convoy of bandits surrounding them, heightening the suspense. This particular scene was reportedly excised by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) due to its extreme violence. Gabbar's savage portrayal was deemed excessively intense for audiences at that time, leading the board to mandate cuts before granting approval for the film’s release.

The Instagram post noted: "Did you know that this scene from Ramesh Sippy's Sholay (1975), in which Gabbar Singh kills Ahmed, was cut by the Central Film Certification Board citing 'extreme brutality'?" The resurfaced image has ignited intrigue and nostalgia among film aficionados, prompting discussions on how this intense moment could have influenced Gabbar’s character had it been included in the final cut.

Why Sholay Remains Unforgettable

Sholay is celebrated as one of the greatest films in Indian cinema, masterfully blending action, emotion, and unforgettable performances. Gabbar Singh’s character became synonymous with fear, and lines such as "Pachas kos door jab bachcha rota hai, toh maa kehti hai, so ja beta, nahi toh Gabbar aa jayega," are still frequently quoted today. The film’s compelling storytelling, gripping screenplay, and iconic characters—from Veeru and Jai to Basanti and Thakur—have solidified its legendary status.

Why Deleted Scenes Matter

Deleted scenes with cultural and cinematic significance provide unique insights into a filmmaker's original vision. The recently resurfaced Gabbar scene offers a deeper understanding of his ruthless persona and raises questions about how it might have altered the film’s tone and audience reactions.As Sholay approaches its 50th anniversary on August 15, 2025, it continues to be celebrated across generations. Moments like these remind us why it transcends mere entertainment; it’s a phenomenon that has significantly shaped Indian pop culture. This rediscovered scene of Gabbar Singh brings fans closer to the film’s uncut brilliance and reignites discussions about censorship, creativity, and cinematic history.