Screenwriter and cinema theorist Anjum Rajabali believes that Sholay’s lasting resonance with Indian audiences stems from its deep emotional design rooted in the navarasa tradition of Indian aesthetics. Speaking at the Museum of Goa during a ‘MOG Sunday’ session celebrating the film’s 50th anniversary, Rajabali explained how Ramesh Sippy’s 1975 classic integrates all nine emotional essences — from love and laughter to fear and peace — making it timeless and universally relatable.
