Bobby Deol joins Ramesh Sippy at Toronto International Film Festival 2025 for Sholay 4K screening

The 50th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) turned special for Indian cinema fans as the digitally restored 4K version of the legendary film Sholay was screened. Actor Bobby Deol and the director of the film, Ramesh Sippy, attended the grand premiere. The screening was part of a celebration marking 50 years since the film’s original release in 1975.

Considered one of the greatest films in Indian cinema, Sholay featured Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra in leading roles, along with Sanjeev Kumar, Hema Malini, and Amjad Khan. Its dialogues, music, and unforgettable characters made it a timeless classic. The 2025 restoration and screening at TIFF gave audiences across the globe a chance to relive its magic on the big screen in a new format.

Bobby Deol represents Dharmendra at the screening

At the TIFF premiere, Bobby Deol walked the red carpet representing his father, Dharmendra, who had played the iconic role of Veeru in Sholay. Bobby was joined by director Ramesh Sippy, producer Shehzad Sippy, and Film Heritage Foundation (FHF) director Shivendra Singh Dungarpur. The team was warmly welcomed by a crowd of enthusiastic fans and members of the international press.

Bobby Deol interacted with fans, posed for pictures, and signed autographs. Sharing glimpses from the event on Instagram, the Film Heritage Foundation posted, “The restored Sholay had a gala premiere at the 50th edition of the Toronto International Film Festival with Director Ramesh Sippy, actor Bobby Deol, producer Shehzad Sippy and FHF Director Shivendra Singh Dungarpur walking the red carpet lined with press and hordes of enthusiastic fans.”

The screening was more than just a movie presentation — it was also a celebration of Indian cinema’s global reach. For many international viewers, this was their first chance to experience Sholay in a remastered version that highlighted its powerful storytelling, memorable dialogues, and timeless charm. For Indian fans living abroad, it was an emotional event as the film continues to hold a special place in their hearts even five decades later.

Apart from attending the Sholay screening, Bobby Deol has another reason to celebrate his presence at TIFF 2025. His new film Monkey In A Cage, directed by Anurag Kashyap, is also scheduled to have its world premiere in the Special Presentation category at the festival. The film features Bobby in a prominent role alongside Sanya Malhotra, Saba Azad, and Sapna Pabbi. This double feature makes the festival an important milestone in Bobby’s career.

Indian films shine at TIFF 2025

The Toronto International Film Festival 2025 has turned out to be especially memorable for India. Along with the 4K screening of Sholay, two other Indian films are part of the Galas and Special Presentations.

Filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound, which was widely appreciated at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year, is set to have its North American premiere at TIFF. Known for his sensitive storytelling and powerful narratives, Ghaywan’s inclusion adds further weight to India’s presence at the festival.

Anurag Kashyap’s Monkey In A Cage, featuring Bobby Deol, is another highlight. The film, which explores complex themes with Kashyap’s signature style, is expected to receive global attention. With these screenings, Indian cinema is making a strong impression at one of the world’s biggest film festivals.

The 50th anniversary screening of Sholay itself carries historic significance. Released on August 15, 1975, the movie broke box office records and went on to become a cultural landmark. From Gabbar Singh’s fearsome dialogues to the friendship of Jai and Veeru, Sholay shaped Indian popular culture in a way few films have ever managed. Its re-release in 4K is both a tribute to its creators and a gift to a new generation of viewers.

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Bobby Deol’s presence at the premiere symbolized continuity between generations of actors in Indian cinema. Representing his father Dharmendra, he bridged the past and present of Bollywood. His involvement also added a personal touch to the event, reminding audiences of the emotional connections families and fans share with iconic films.

On his work front, Bobby Deol continues to expand his career with diverse roles. Apart from Monkey In A Cage, he will soon be seen in the Tamil-language political action thriller Jana Nayakan, directed by H. Vinoth and produced by KVN Productions. The film stars Vijay, Pooja Hegde, and Bobby Deol in lead roles, with an ensemble cast including Mamitha Baiju, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Prakash Raj, Narayan, and Priyamani. This project marks Bobby’s increasing involvement in regional cinema, adding another dimension to his acting career.

Overall, TIFF 2025 has become a special stage for both Bobby Deol and Indian cinema. With the nostalgic revival of Sholay and the international spotlight on new films like Monkey In A Cage and Homebound, the festival highlights the growing recognition of Indian films worldwide. For audiences, it is an opportunity to celebrate both the golden past and the dynamic present of Indian storytelling.