Kitne Aadmi Thhe: Music stores remember the record that changed the industry for ever
Times of India | 14 August 2025
Kolkata: In 1975, the release of ‘Sholay' marked a pivotal moment in Bollywood, not just for its groundbreaking action sequences but for its revolutionary approach to film soundtracks. The film's music and dialogues became a cultural phenomenon, especially in Kolkata, where fans eagerly played the LPs and EPs until they wore out. This was the first time Bollywood embraced stereo sound, offering an immersive auditory experience that captivated audiences.
Shiladitya Chaudhury, a music enthusiast and composer, recalls how the soundtrack was already a sensation before the film hit theaters. Radio Ceylon teased audiences with songs like ‘Koi Haseena Jab Mil Jaaye', but it was the inclusion of Gabbar Singh's iconic dialogues and RD Burman's evocative background score on vinyl that truly set it apart. This was more than just music; it was a sonic experience that fans relished on their home record players.
Polydor Records, a newcomer in the Indian market, took a bold step by purchasing the music rights from the Sippys for Rs 5 lakh, outbidding industry giant HMV. This gamble paid off spectacularly, as Polydor sold five times the number of records needed to break even, cementing its place in the industry. Prem Gupta, from the Symphony shop in New Market, noted that ‘Sholay' was instrumental in establishing Polydor's reputation.
| Gold Rates Today in Kolkata | Silver Rates Today in KolkataThe soundtrack's success was due in large part to RD Burman's innovative use of music. His compositions were ahead of their time, incorporating French horns, eerie cello wails, and even beer-bottle percussion. The six-track stereo recording was a rarity in India, requiring meticulous coordination and international collaboration for mixing. This technical achievement transformed the Indian film music scene, setting a new standard for future productions.
The release of LPs featuring the film's dialogues was another groundbreaking move. Fans were not only captivated by the music but also by the memorable lines delivered by characters like Jai, Veeru, Basanti, and Gabbar Singh. These dialogues became an integral part of the film's appeal.
While ‘Sholay' wasn't technically the first 70mm or six-track stereo film, it was the first to combine these elements with a blockbuster narrative. The result was a sensory feast, with every sound meticulously crafted to enhance the viewing experience. Amit Sarkar, a sound engineer, highlighted how even the fight effects were reworked in London to deliver the satisfying ‘dishum dishum' that audiences loved.
The film's music also broke new ground with the use of a synthesizer in ‘Yeh Dosti', signaling the playful rivalry and friendship between Jai and Veeru. Nearly five decades later, the sounds of ‘Sholay' continue to resonate in popular culture. From Gabbar's gravelly ‘Kitne aadmi the?' to Burman's galloping themes, the film's soundtrack remains a testament to the transformative power of music in cinema. In 1975, ‘Sholay' wasn't just a film release; it was a revolution on vinyl.
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