India, Aug. 15 -- I don't think a film like this can ever be made again. Even if (director) Ramesh Sippy ji himself tried to remake the film, it wouldn't be the same," says actor-politician Hema Malini as she reflects on the blockbuster phenomenon of Sholay. Speaking about the iconic film, which marks its 50th anniversary today, she tells us, "Sholay definitely made me more popular. I think [my role as Basanti] brought so much happiness to people who watched it then - and it's doing the same now." What is it about the film that has set it apart, even after all these years? "The bond between Jai (actor Amitabh Bachchan) and Veeru (actor and husband, Dharmendra) was the soul of the film. Their friendship wasn't just written into the script - it felt alive. With Dharmendra ji playing Veeru, that chemistry became more unforgettable. There was charm in their banter, their silences, and that unspoken loyalty. That sort of bond rare in cinema today," the actor replies. While her role as the spunky Basanti catapulted her to a different level of fame, Hema reveals that she was unimpressed when it was first offered to her. "I even asked Ramesh ji, 'Are you sure? You are offering me ek tange waali ka role, itna chota role?' He said, 'Just say yes or you will repent'. Thankfully, I listened," the actor shares, adding, "Who knew Basanti would become so iconic? At gatherings, I can't get off the stage till I don't recite Basanti's dialogue, 'Chal Dhanno, aaj teri Basanti ki izzat ka sawaal hai.' The character was ahead of her time. She was a self-made woman who lived life on her own terms. And imagine, back then, I didn't know how important that would become!" Despite its cult status, the film had a slow start at the box-office. But according to the 76-year-old veteran, the cast and crew knew it was different. However, she does admit, "No one thought it would become such a phenomenon. We were amazed when it completed 25 years. Now, some of us are still alive to witness this milestone today."...