Jaipur (Rajasthan) [India], March 4 (HBTV): The 25th edition of the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards is set to make cinema enthusiasts nostalgic with a special celebration of Ramesh Sippy’s iconic film Sholay.
Marking the 50th anniversary of Sholay, the IIFA organisers have planned an exclusive screening of the film at Jaipur’s legendary Raj Mandir Cinema.
Andre Timmins, Co-Founder of IIFA, expressed his excitement about the event, saying, ‘IIFA 2025 is not just a celebration—it’s a journey through time, honouring 50 years of Sholay at Jaipur’s iconic Raj Mandir. As we mark IIFA’s Silver Jubilee, we are celebrating more than milestones; we are celebrating legends, memories, and the magic of cinema that has touched hearts for generations. Sholay is more than a film—it’s an emotion, a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire storytellers and audiences alike. And what better place to honour its legacy than Raj Mandir, a theatre that has been a historical sanctuary for movie lovers for five decades.’
He added, ‘This tribute is our way of bringing together the soul of Indian cinema with the grandeur of an architectural marvel, creating a moment that will be cherished forever. It’s a historic celebration of cinema and culture. IIFA 2025 promises to be an unforgettable homage to the power of storytelling, uniting film lovers in a celebration of the magic that makes Indian cinema so special.’
Sholay revolves around the village of Ramgarh, where retired police chief Thakur Baldev Singh (Sanjeev Kumar) plots to bring down the notorious bandit Gabbar Singh (Amjad Khan) with the help of two small-time criminals, Jai (Amitabh Bachchan) and Veeru (Dharmendra). When Gabbar attacks the village, Jai and Veeru are puzzled by Thakur’s inaction, only to later learn that he has no arms—having lost them to Gabbar. Enraged, they redouble their efforts to help him seek justice.
The film starred legendary actors, including Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Sanjeev Kumar, Jaya Bachchan, and Amjad Khan.
IIFA 2025 is scheduled to take place in Jaipur from March 8 to March 9.
(ANI)