RIP Manoj Kumar: Lesser-Known Facts About the Iconic ‘Bharat Kumar’

Legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, fondly known as 'Bharat Kumar' for his patriotic films, passed away at the age of 87 at Mumbai's Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. According to reports, Manoj Kumar was admitted to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, where he passed away following heart-related complications. The medical certificate issued by the hospital listed decompensated liver cirrhosis as a secondary cause of death.

His legacy in Indian cinema is defined by iconic films like Shaheed (1965), Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974), and Kranti (1981), each of which contributed to his image as a symbol of patriotism and social consciousness.

As the nation mourns his loss, here's a look at some lesser-known facts about the man who became a symbol of nationalism on the silver screen.

A Star Born in Pre-Partition India

Born on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Manoj Kumar's real name was Harikrishna Giri Goswami. His life was deeply shaped by the events of Partition, which would later influence his films. After completing his graduation from Hindu College, University of Delhi, Goswami set his sights on a career in the film industry.

Inspired by Dilip Kumar-And Named After a Role

His screen name 'Manoj Kumar' was inspired by a character played by Dilip Kumar in the 1949 film Shabnam. Dilip Kumar remained his idol throughout his life.

A Childhood Marred by Tragedy

During the Partition riots, Kumar's family fled to Delhi. He lost his infant brother amid the violence, a traumatic event that stayed with him and possibly shaped his intense portrayal of emotional and patriotic themes.

Humble Beginnings in Bollywood

Manoj Kumar started as a ghostwriter, earning Rs 11 per scene. His first role was that of a 90-year-old beggar in the 1957 film Fashion, at the age of just 19.

Manoj Kumar began his acting career with the film Fashion in 1957, though the movie failed to earn him much recognition at the time.

A Man of His Word

Even when he was offered more money later in his career, Kumar insisted on sticking to earlier commitments. He once refused a pay hike, saying, "I had committed that sum."

Cinema Influenced by a PM

Following the Indo-Pak War of 1965, Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri inspired Kumar to make a film around the slogan "Jai Jawan, Jai Kissan." This resulted in his directorial debut Upkar (1967), a massive hit.

Romance Alongside Patriotism

While known for his patriotic roles, he was equally popular in romantic films like Woh Kaun Thi?, Do Badan, and Sawan Ki Ghata.

Crossing Borders with Art

In 1989, he took a bold step by casting Pakistani actors Mohammad Ali and Zeba in his film Clerk, reflecting his belief in art beyond borders.

Attempted to Pass the Torch

In 1999, he directed Jai Hind in a bid to launch his son Kunal Goswami. The film failed commercially, but it showcased Kumar's dedication to legacy. Manoj Kumar was married to Shashi Goswami and was a father to two sons, Vishal Goswami and Kunal Goswami.

Honoured, and Remembered

He was honoured the Padma Shri in 1992. In 2016, Manoj Kumar received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's highest honour in cinema. His life's work was celebrated with a standing ovation that day-a fitting tribute to a legend.