“Manoj Kumar Dies at 87 – A Patriotic Journey Through His 5 Most Iconic Films”
From Shaheed to Kranti, Manoj Kumar's film journey set the definition of patriotism for Indian cinema across generations.
Veteran actor Manoj Kumar, also “Bharat Kumar”, died at 87 following complications related to the heart. A stalwart of patriotic cinema, we reflect on his five most iconic films that stirred a nation.
New Delhi:
Bollywood veteran actor and director Manoj Kumar, who is most famously remembered for his iconic contributions to patriotic films, died peacefully at the age of 87 on Friday. The veteran actor was taken to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, where he breathed his last due to heart-related issues, for which decompensated liver cirrhosis was mentioned as an associated cause of death, as stated in the hospital’s medical certificate.
Spread over four decades, Manoj Kumar‘s glorious career covered all the major genres of Indian cinema — from sentimental romances to suspenseful thrillers and strong social dramas. Yet, his legacy lies deeply embedded in his moving representations of patriotism, and he retains the lasting appellation of “Bharat Kumar.”
A glimpse at five of his most memorable patriotic films that still connect with audiences across generations:
1. Shaheed (1965)
A powerful biopic on revolutionary freedom fighter Bhagat Singh, Shaheed established Manoj Kumar as a serious actor. Released during India’s post-independence years, the film struck a chord with the nation and became a benchmark for biographical storytelling in Hindi cinema.
2. Upkar (1967)
This movie not only earned awards but also awarded Manoj Kumar his iconic title. As farmer-soldier, his performance hailed the ethos of “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan“, reflecting selflessness and patriotism. Upkar was a cultural landmark and one of his most enduring works.
3. Purab Aur Paschim (1970)
A filmic interpretation of East vs. West ideologies, Purab Aur Paschim depicted the battle to retain Indian values in the face of Western influence. As Bharat, Manoj Kumar gave a powerful performance that struck a chord with audiences back home and abroad.
4. Kranti (1981)
A huge epic of India‘s struggle for independence, Kranti was personally directed by Manoj Kumar and had an ensemble cast consisting of Dilip Kumar, Hema Malini, and Shatrughan Sinha. The movie became one of the biggest hits of its era and solidified his position as the symbol of patriotic cinema.
5. Jai Hind (1999)
His last directorial outing, Jai Hind, played out its dramas of love, betrayal, and loyalty in a patriotic backdrop. The movie told the story of two retired colonels on the opposing sides of a national dispute, presenting one last salute to his lifelong movie quest.
Manoj Kumar was not just an actor, he was an icon of cinematic nationalism. Even as India is grieving his loss, his movies are eternal tributes to what he believed in. A true legend, his legacy will live on in the hearts of a nation forever grateful.
