The actor who played Imam Saheb in Sholay, earned just Rs 8,000, making him the film’s lowest-paid yet most memorable actor.
Published: October 25, 2025 7:08 AM IST
The Bollywood classic “Sholay” recently completed 50 years. This film not only captivated audiences but also shaped Indian cinema. Behind its success lies a story that exemplifies simplicity and dedication. The actor who played Rahim Chacha (Imam Sahib) may have appeared briefly in the film, but he has become immortal in cinematic history. Regarding the fees of the stars of Sholay, Imam Sahib’s fees were lower than those of the other stars. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that he was the lowest-paid actor in Sholay.
Who was Sholay’s most affordable actor?
Imam Sahab, was none other than A.K. Hangal. It’s said he received a fee of eight thousand rupees for this role. Released in 1975, Sholay was directed by Ramesh Sippy. The film’s budget was approximately 3 crore rupees, and it starred Dharmendra, Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, Asrani, Jaya Bachchan, and Sanjeev Kumar.
Who charged the highest fee in Sholay?
Dharmendra charged the highest fee of Rs 1.50 lakh for the role of Veeru, while Sanjeev Kumar received Rs 1.25 lakh for the role of Thakur. Amitabh Bachchan received Rs 1 lakh for Jai, Hema Malini Rs 75,000 for Basanti, and Jaya Bachchan Rs 35,000 for Radha. Amjad Khan charged Rs 50,000 for the role of Gabbar Singh. But among actors who excelled even in minor roles, A.K. Hangal stands out. He charged a mere Rs 8,000 for Imam Saheb.
Sholay’s Imam Saheb
A.K. Hangal’s full name was Avtar Kishan Hangal. He was born in 1914. He was a soldier in the freedom struggle and was active until 1947. He entered films late. His first film was 1966’s “Teesri Kasam” at the age of 52, in which he played Raj Kapoor’s elder brother. But “Sholay” made him a household name. A.K. Hangal worked in more than 200 films, including films like “Shaukeen,” “Manzil,” “Namak Haram,” and “Shaukeen.” He passed away in 2012 at the age of 98.
