Meet Reshma Pathan, Hema Malini’s Body Double Who Performed Iconic Stunts In Sholay
Many might not know that the daring stunt scenes of Basanti were actually performed by Reshma Pathan, not Hema Malini.
Released on August 15, 1975, Sholay became a landmark in the history of Hindi cinema, blending themes of love, friendship, and revenge. Even after nearly 50 years, the film’s iconic lines and scenes are etched in viewers’ minds. Who could forget the line “Basanti in kutto ke samane mat nachna" or the memorable image of Dharmendra’s character bound in chains, and Hema Malini’s Basanti running from a thong? What many might not know is that the daring stunt scenes of Basanti were actually performed by Reshma Pathan, not Hema Malini.
Reshma Pathan, Bollywood’s first female stunt artist, performed all the dangerous stunts for Hema Malini in Sholay. This revelation was made by director Ramesh Sippy. A viral video from Kaun Banega Crorepati shows Amitabh Bachchan praising Reshma’s bravery, mentioning her performance in stunts like rescuing a girl from a galloping horse. Hema Malini herself acknowledged Reshma’s vital contribution, calling her a key factor in the film’s success. Reshma, in turn, expressed gratitude for being treated as a heroine, not just a stunt double.
Ramesh Sippy recalled the daring stunts Reshma Pathan performed in Sholay, emphasising how she executed difficult and dangerous shots. One memorable moment involved Reshma performing a stunt, where she rescued a girl from an oncoming horse, a scene that left a lasting impression. Hema Malini, recognising Reshma’s contribution, acknowledged that it was her stunt work that made both of them famous, remembering all the challenging shots Reshma had done. In response, Reshma expressed that she never felt like a mere duplicate, as she was always treated as a heroine and appreciated for her work.
Pathan’s career spans over four decades, where she has risked her life for the silver screen, participating in thousands of dangerous stunts across nearly 400 films. Her story, a testament to her courage and determination, is a source of inspiration for aspiring stunt performers and women in the film industry.
- Location :
- First Published: