When we think about blockbuster films from the 1970s, one name that immediately pops up in our mind is Sholay. Whether it’s the talented cast, powerful performances or the memorable dialogues, the action drama’s appeal is truly unmatched.
Directed by Ramesh Sippy, the Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra starrer followed two criminals, Jai (Amitabh Bachchan) and Veeru (Dharmendra), who are hired by a retired police officer (Sanjeev Kumar) to capture the ruthless Gabbar Singh (Amjad Khan).
Released on August 15, 1975, the epic action-adventure movie is also regarded as one of the most prolific Hindi films of all time. It also starred Sanjeev Kumar, Asrani, Jaya Bachchan, Hema Malini and Amjad Khan.
Made on a budget of Rs 2-3 crore, Sholay earned over Rs 35 crore at the domestic box office and over Rs 25 crore worldwide.
But to everyone’s surprise, this movie wasn’t the highest-grossing movie worldwide. There was another movie, released in 1971, that broke the records set by Sholay.
Early in his career, veteran actor Jeetendra delivered a film that broke the worldwide record of Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra’s Sholay.
Made under the direction of Nasir Hussain, the film featured Jeetendra alongside Asha Parekh and Aruna Irani in lead roles.
The crime thriller, blending romance, music and drama, became a massive box office success. It not only captivated audiences but also generated significant revenue.
Any guesses? That film was none other than Caravan. Inspired by Girl on the Run, the film earned Rs 3.6 crore at the box office in India.
That’s not all. It’s real success came when it was re-released in China, where it sold a staggering Rs 30 crore tickets, becoming the highest-grossing Indian movie in any country.
Surpassing Sholay’s record, Jeetendra’s Caravan also reportedly sold Rs 31 crore tickets worldwide.
The soothing songs like Piya Tu Ab To Aaja, Chalte Chalte and Kitna Pyara Wada, crooned by RD Burman and lyrics penned by Majrooh Sultanpuri, stuck chord with listeners and are still loved to date.
