When Dharmendra Was Almost Cast In Sholay Director’s Cult Action Thriller

Not many know that Dharmendra was almost cast in Ramesh Sippy’s big-budget action thriller that followed Sholay, which later became a cult classic.

When Dharmendra Was Almost Cast In An Action Thriller After Sholay(Photo Credit –Instagram)

Fans around the world have been concerned about the health of legendary Indian actor Dharmendra, who has now reportedly been discharged from Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital. Several Bollywood stars, including Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Govinda, and Abhay Deol, were spotted visiting him to check on the veteran actor’s condition.

Jai, Veeru and Basanti!
Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini in Sholay (1975)
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What rating would you give Sholay (1975) out of 5?#dharmendra #AmitabhBachchan #hemamalini #ratethemovie #bollywoodflashback pic.twitter.com/JJClPGVeHv

— Movies N Memories (@BombayBasanti) November 9, 2025

Known for unforgettable performances in classics like Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Haqeeqat, Seeta Aur Geeta, and The Burning Train, Dharmendra’s filmography is filled with iconic roles. However, few know that he was also considered for a major role in Shaan (1980), the star-studded action thriller directed by Sholay director Ramesh Sippy.

Amitabh Bachchan, Shashi Kapoor, Shatrughan Sinha And Rakhee Gulzar In Ramesh Sippy’s ‘Shaan’ (1980). Made Memorable Movies With All 3 Co-Stars Like ‘Sharmeele’, ‘Black Mail, ‘Trishul’, and some others. pic.twitter.com/HzrCtCd1C8

— Subhash Shirdhonkar (@4331Subhash) April 1, 2025

Released five years after Sholay and written by Salim-Javed, Shaan featured Amitabh Bachchan, Shashi Kapoor, Sunil Dutt, and Shatrughan Sinha, but Dharmendra was almost part of this ensemble. Here’s the interesting story behind which role he was offered and why he couldn’t be in the film.

Why Did Dharmendra Turn Down Shaan?

Although filmmaker Ramesh Sippy initially planned to reunite with the Sholay cast for his next big project, Shaan, fate had other plans. As per a report by News18, Ramesh Sippy wanted to cast Dharmendra, Hema Malini, and Sanjeev Kumar in key roles. However, Dharmendra decided not to be part of the film due to some differences with the director. Following his exit, Hema Malini also chose to step away, and eventually, Sanjeev Kumar too opted out, leading the filmmaker to rework the cast.

Which Actor Replaced Dharmendra in Shaan?

After Dharmendra’s exit from Shaan, there were big shoes to fill. The role eventually went to Shashi Kapoor, who had recently shared the screen with Amitabh Bachchan in Yash Chopra’s 1979 action-drama Kaala Patthar. His effortless charm and strong on-screen chemistry with Amitabh Bachchan made him a fitting addition to Ramesh Sippy’s ensemble.

What Is Shaan All About?

Directed by Ramesh Sippy, this action drama follows brothers Vijay (Amitabh Bachchan) and Ravi (Shashi Kapoor), carefree conmen whose lives take a dark turn after their honest brother, Inspector Shiv Kumar (Sunil Dutt), is killed by the ruthless crime lord Shakaal (Kulbhushan Kharbanda). Teaming up with a skilled marksman (Shatrughan Sinha), they set out to infiltrate Shakaal’s island fortress to avenge their brother’s death.

Where to Watch Shaan?

Shana is currently available to stream on Amazon Prime Video and MX Player digital platforms in India.

Shaan Trailer

For more such stories, check out Bollywood Features

Must Read: “Maut Mubarak Ho Meena Kumari,” When Nargis Hearbreakingly Revealed How Dharmendra Was The Reason For Pakeezah Actress’s Slow Death!

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When Dharmendra Was Almost Cast In Sholay Director’s Cult Action Thriller — Where To Watch It Now

Not many know that Dharmendra was almost cast in Ramesh Sippy’s big-budget action thriller that followed Sholay, which later became a cult classic.

Why Did Dharmendra Turn Down Shaan?

Which Actor Replaced Dharmendra in Shaan?

What Is Shaan All About?

Where to Watch Shaan?

Shaan Trailer

When Dharmendra Was Almost Cast In Sholay Director’s Cult Action Thriller — Where To Watch It Now

Not many know that Dharmendra was almost cast in Ramesh Sippy’s big-budget action thriller that followed Sholay, which later became a cult classic.

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Why Did Dharmendra Turn Down Shaan?

Which Actor Replaced Dharmendra in Shaan?

What Is Shaan All About?

Where to Watch Shaan?

Shaan Trailer

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“Maut Mubarak Ho Meena Kumari,” When Nargis Hearbreakingly Revealed How Dharmendra Was The Reason For Pakeezah Actress’s Slow Death!