Meet the actor who played a memorable role in Amitabh Bachchan and Dharmendra’s ‘Sholay’; has won two National Awards; married to a famous actress and father of a popular OTT star

‘Sholay’ is one of the most legendary films ever made. Even today, fans remember its famous characters like Samba, Mausiji, and Kalia. The film’s iconic dialogues like “Kitne aadmi the?” and “Tera kya hoga Kaalia?” have become part of cinema history. But there’s one actor who did more than just act in ‘Sholay’, he also helped behind the scenes. That actor is Sachin Pilgaonkar, a two-time National Award winner and a true all-rounder in Indian cinema.

Early introduction to the world of cinema

Born in 1957 in Mumbai, Sachin Pilgaonkar was introduced to films early. His father, Sharad Pilgaonkar, was a film producer. As reported by DNA, Sachin began acting at just four years old. His debut film, ‘Ha Maza Marg Ekla’ (1962), won him the National Film Award for Best Child Artist. Over 65 films as a child artist followed, setting the stage for a long career.

Rising star through popular films of the 70s and 80s

In the mid-1970s and early 1980s, Sachin became a leading actor. His notable films include ‘Geet Gaata Chal’ (1975), ‘Balika Badhu’ (1976), ‘Ankhiyon Ke Jharokhon Se’ (1978), and ‘Nadiya Ke Paar’ (1982). These films made him a popular and respected actor in both Hindi and Marathi cinema.

Sachin’s memorable role in ‘Sholay’

In ‘Sholay’, Sachin played Ahmed, the son of Rahim Chacha. His death at the hands of the villain Gabbar Singh was a crucial moment that pushed Jai and Veeru to fight harder. Though brief, the role left a strong impact on viewers.

Behind the scenes help

Sachin’s involvement extended beyond acting to assisting with the direction of action scenes. According to DNA, Ramesh Sippy placed his trust in Sachin and Amjad Khan (who played Gabbar Singh) to oversee the action sequences, particularly because they were working with Hollywood stunt professionals. Sachin’s earlier experience in film editing under Hrishikesh Mukherjee helped him gain this responsibility.

Success as a director

Sachin moved into directing Marathi films in the 1980s, starting with ‘Mai Baap’. He also directed hits like ‘Navri Mile Navryala’, ‘Gammat Jammat’, and ‘Ashi Hi Banwa Banwi’. In 2007, he directed the Kannada film ‘Ekadantha’.

Star studded family

Sachin is married to well known Marathi actress Supriya Pilgaonkar, she has also worked in Hindi TV soaps like ‘Tu Tu Main Main’, ‘Sasural Genda Phool’ and ‘Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi’. Their daughter Shriya Pilgaonkar is also making waves as an actor she worked in popular web series ‘Mirzapur’. Together, they represent a shining family in Indian cinema.

Sachin Pilgaonkar’s career spans decades of acting, directing, and producing. From winning National Awards as a child to his dual role in ‘Sholay’, he has contributed greatly to Indian film.
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