1st August 2023, Mumbai: Sholay’s Meditative Scene Found to be Inspired
Indian cinema has a rich history of iconic moments, and one such memorable scene is the meditative sequence from Ramesh Sippy’s classic movie, Sholay (1975), where Gabbar (Amjad Khan) annihilates Thakur’s (Sanjeev Kumar) entire family. However, recent revelations have brought to light that this scene was not an original creation. It was, in fact, lifted from Sergio Leone’s Once Upon A Time in the West (1968), a Spaghetti Western from Hollywood’s golden era.
Adil Hussain’s Surprising Revelation
Actor Adil Hussain took to Twitter to share a side-by-side comparison of the similar sequence from Once Upon A Time in the West. He expressed his astonishment in the caption, humorously acknowledging the unexpected resemblance between the revered Indian film and the lesser-known Western. The tweet triggered a chain of reactions from other Bollywood personalities and fans, sparking discussions on originality and inspiration in cinema.
Ranvir Shorey’s Witty Response
Actor Ranvir Shorey responded to Adil Hussain’s tweet with a hilarious GIF, playfully suggesting that such instances contribute to the term ‘Bollywood’ being associated with imitation. This response not only added a touch of humor to the conversation but also highlighted a prevailing perception in the film industry.
The Oscar Controversy
The revelation of Sholay’s inspired sequence led some Twitter users to mockingly comment on Bollywood’s aspirations for international recognition, particularly Oscars. They pointed out the irony of clamoring for prestigious accolades while allegedly relying on borrowed content. Such comments reflect the skepticism and criticism faced by the Indian film industry regarding originality and creativity.
A Legacy of Inspiration
Twitter users delved deeper into the origins of the meditative sequence, revealing that Sergio Leone himself was inspired by Akira Kurosawa’s 1954 Japanese epic, Seven Samurai. The theme of a “badass hit team protecting a village” has been a recurring motif across different film industries, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. The discourse shifted from mere plagiarism accusations to the broader concept of inspiration and homage in filmmaking.
Sholay’s Everlasting Impact
Despite the recent revelation, Sholay remains an iconic and cherished film in Indian cinema. Released in 1975, the film boasts an ensemble cast, including legendary actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, Dharmendra, and Jaya Bachchan, alongside the unforgettable portrayal of Gabbar by Amjad Khan. The film’s success and enduring legacy are a testament to its storytelling prowess, memorable characters, and dialogues.
Once Upon A Time in the West: The Trilogy’s Inception
On the other hand, Once Upon A Time in the West, directed by Sergio Leone and starring Henry Fonda, marked the beginning of the Once Upon A Time trilogy. The trilogy continued with Duck, You Sucker! (1971) and Once Upon a Time in America (1984). Sergio Leone’s Westerns, including Once Upon A Time in the West, have influenced filmmakers worldwide, including Indian cinema, leaving an indelible mark on the art of storytelling.
The recent revelation of Sholay’s borrowed sequence from Sergio Leone’s Once Upon A Time in the West has sparked conversations on originality, inspiration, and creativity in cinema. While plagiarism accusations can be disheartening, it is essential to recognize that inspiration and homage have been integral to filmmaking across cultures and time. Sholay and Once Upon A Time in the West remain iconic films, each contributing to the cinematic world in their unique ways, and their legacies continue to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike.
-by Kashvi Gala