The iconic Bollywood classic Sholay, released on 15 August 1975, is set to complete 50 glorious years. The film remains etched in the memories of millions, with every character—from Amitabh Bachchan’s Jai to Dharmendra’s Veeru—holding a special place in the audience’s hearts. As stories and anecdotes about the film continue to trend on social media, actress Raveena Tandon has shared a heartfelt tribute to Sambha, the memorable character played by her maternal uncle Mac Mohan.
‘Are O Sambha’ – A Line That Became Immortal
The moment Gabbar Singh utters “Arey O Sambha”, the image of Mac Mohan instantly flashes in the minds of film lovers. Speaking about the film’s golden jubilee, Raveena said,
“Samba and Gabbar are two of the most iconic film characters who will remain immortal for generations of movie lovers.”
Passing on Cinema Legacy to the Next Generation
Raveena revealed that Sholay was the first Hindi film she showed her daughter Rasha as part of her film education. “Sambha will always remain alive in our hearts. I had the privilege of working with the legendary Ramesh Sippy, which is a huge achievement for me,” she said.
She also fondly remembered Mac Mohan, describing him as one of Hindi cinema’s most loved villains, who was equally warm-hearted in real life.
A Villain With a Golden Heart
Sharing a personal memory, Raveena said,
“He was a villain I knew by heart. I remember watching him in Kaala Patthar with Amitabh Bachchan when I was very young. In one scene, he’s a brilliant card player who sacrifices himself to save others. That was exactly who he was in real life—a man who sacrificed a lot for others, with a heart of gold.”
Emotional Childhood Memory
Raveena recalled how she cried uncontrollably during Mac Mohan’s death scene in Kaala Patthar.
“I must have been four years old. There was a scene where he dies in a strong water current. I cried so much that my father had to take me out of the theatre. I used to call him ‘senior’ and he would call me ‘senorita’. He was the sweetest and most loving person.”
As Sholay marks its 50th anniversary, Raveena’s tribute is a reminder of how the film and its characters—especially Sambha—continue to live on in the hearts of generations.
