Bobby Deol Represents Dharmendra at 4K Gala Screening of ‘Sholay’ at Toronto Film Festival 2025

Fast Summary

• A restored 4K version of Bollywood classic Sholay premiered at the 50th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) on Saturday.
• Bobby Deol attended the gala premiere, representing his father Dharmendra. He interacted with fans and signed autographs.
• The event was also graced by director Ramesh Sippy, producer Shezad Sippy, and shivendra Singh Dungarpur, Director of Film Heritage Foundation (FHF).
• The premiere took place at Roy thomson Hall, which seats 1,800 attendees.
• FHF shared photos from the premiere via Instagram, celebrating Sholay’s presence at TIFF.
• Released in 1975, Sholay is regarded as a cult favorite in Indian cinema for its gripping storyline and iconic characters like Gabbar Singh. It features evergreen songs such as “Yeh Dosti” and “Mehbooba Mehbooba,” along with memorable performances by Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Hema Malini, Jaya Bachchan among others.

!Image from Gala Premiere

Read More

Indian Opinion Analysis

the premiere of Sholay‘s restored 4K version at TIFF marks a significant moment for Indian cinema on an international platform. It reaffirms India’s ability to preserve cinematic heritage while resonating globally through storytelling universally appreciated even decades later. By choosing to include iconic voices like Bobby Deol representing original cast member Dharmendra alongside industry custodians such as Ramesh Sippy and Shivendra Singh Dungarpur at an event this prestigious demonstrates how nostalgia can foster cultural dialog internationally.

Such screenings not only spotlight Bollywood classics but also inspire further restoration initiatives within India’s film archive to safeguard artistic legacy for future generations while enhancing India’s soft power abroad.