50 years of Sholay: From Mehbooba Mehbooba to Yeh Dosti, revisiting the film’s iconic songs

Still from Sholay

It will be 50 years since the iconic Hindi film Sholay was released in theatres on August 15, 2025. Directed by Ramesh Sippy, the film stars Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, Hema Malini, Jaya Bachchan, Sanjeev Kumar, Amjad Khan, and more in pivotal roles. Over the decades, Sholay has achieved cult classic status. From its gripping plot, unforgettable characters, and legendary dialogues to its timeless music, every element of the film remains etched in memory.

Sholay soundtrack

As the film marks this milestone, we revisit its unforgettable music.

The soundtrack of Sholay was composed by the talented R. D. Burman, with lyrics by Anand Bakshi. For playback singing, Kishore Kumar, Lata Mangeshkar, and Manna Dey lent their voices to Dharmendra, Hema Malini, and Amitabh Bachchan respectively.

Yeh Dosti

Sung by Kishore Kumar and Manna Dey, this became an iconic friendship anthem. Even today, it's considered one of the most popular songs celebrating the bond of friendship. In 2010, it was even used to symbolise India's friendship with the United States during President Barack Obama's visit.

Haa Jab Tak Hai Jaan

Sung by Lata Mangeshkar, the song was picturised on Hema Malini. The actress once revealed that she had no rehearsal for the song and performed it on the spot. Interestingly, it took 15 days to picturise.

Koi Haseena

Sung by Kishore Kumar, this track captures Veeru's playful attempt to woo Basanti after a small tiff. The song beautifully blends humour, romance, and Dharmendra's comic timing.

Holi Ke Din

Sung by Kishore Kumar and Lata Mangeshkar, this is a vibrant, colourful celebration of Holi where Jai and Veeru join the villagers in festivities. While joyous on the surface, the song also carries subtle romantic and dramatic undertones.

Mehbooba Mehbooba

Sung and composed by R. D. Burman, the song features the graceful Helen in a captivating dance sequence. The popular track is inspired by Say You Love Me by Greek singer Demis Roussos. Over the years, it has been recreated and remixed multiple times. In 2007, Himesh Reshammiya remixed and sang the track along with Asha Bhosle for his acting debut Aap Ka Suroor.