Ramesh Sippy: Sholay Deemed 'Flop' Due to Rs 3 Cr Budget; Original Climax Returns

• Sholay was initially declared a 'flop' by many due to its then-massive Rs 3 crore budget, which was seen as a financial risk.
• Director Ramesh Sippy revealed that industry experts feared the high budget would "destroy the industry."
• Despite initial concerns, the film became an all-time blockbuster, with its budget now equivalent to Rs 100 crore.
• The movie is celebrating its 50th anniversary and is being re-released with its original ending where Gabbar dies.
• The original climax was changed due to censor board intervention during the Emergency, forcing a reshoot where Gabbar was sent to jail instead of being killed.

Why It Matters: It reveals how a legendary film overcame initial skepticism and censorship.