India, Aug. 6 -- Sholay, directed by Ramesh Sippy, is considered a cult classic in Indian Cinema. It stars Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan, Amjad Khan, and Hema Malini, among others. The film turns 50 on August 15. Gabbar Singh, played by Amjad Khan, remains one of the most popular villains in Hindi cinema history. However, his casting was decided at the last minute, as Amjad was not the first choice for the film. Let us take a look at such unknown details about the film as it turns 50, from KM Amladi's assessment of the film in HT archives.

Danny Denzongpa was making waves as the No. 1 archvillain in the Hindi cinema at that time and was the first choice for Gabbar Singh. Danny was signed, but he was away in Afghanistan shooting Feroz Khan...