Key Points
Manoj Kumar launched Veeru Devgn's career as action director
Legendary filmmaker passed away at 87
Remembered for patriotic cinema and storytelling
Received tributes from top Bollywood celebrities
Recalling the moment with fondness, Ajay shared how Manoj Kumar gave his father his first break as an action director in the iconic film “Roti Kapda Aur Makaan,” marking a significant milestone in Veeru Devgn's successful career in the film industry. The 'Singham' actor took to his Instagram handle to pay his heartfelt tribute to the legendary filmmaker and actor. Sharing his photo from one of his films, Devgn captioned it, “Manoj Kumar ji was not just a cinematic icon - he was a personal milestone in my family’s journey. He gave my father, Veeru Devgan, his very first break as an action director in Roti Kapda Aur Makaan. From there, their collaboration continued all the way to Kranti, creating moments that are now part of Indian cinema’s golden history.”
He added, “Manoj ji’s films - Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, Shor, and Kranti—they weren’t just films…they were national emotions. His creative genius, unwavering patriotism, and storytelling depth set a benchmark that very few have matched. As Indian cinema bids farewell to its Bharat Kumar - a storyteller, a patriot, and a legend. I also wish to say thank you for shaping my father’s journey and for inspiring countless storytellers like me. Your legacy, Manoj ji, is eternal. Om Shanti. - Ajay Devgn.”
Tributes poured in from numerous celebrities, including Akshay Kumar, Farah Khan, Aamir Khan, Farhan Akhtar, and many others, honoring the legacy of the late Manoj Kumar.
Manoj Kumar, the legendary actor-director, passed away on Friday at the age of 87 at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. He was admitted to the hospital on February 21 after his health deteriorated significantly.
In a statement, Dr. Santosh Shetty, CEO and Executive Director at Kokilaben Ambani Hospital, said, “Veteran actor Shri Manoj Kumarji passed away peacefully at the Kokilaben Ambani Hospital early this morning at around 3:30 AM due to age-related health issues. He had been hospitalized for the past few weeks.”
Comments:
Rahul K.
What a beautiful tribute! It's heartwarming to see how one legend helped shape another's career. Manoj Kumar's legacy truly lives on through these stories. 🙏
Priya S.
Manoj Kumar's films were indeed national emotions! I grew up watching his patriotic movies with my grandfather. This article brought back so many memories. ❤️
Amit M.
While I appreciate the sentiment, I wish the article had included more about Veeru Devgn's own contributions to action choreography. He was a pioneer in his own right.
Neha J.
"Roti Kapda Aur Makaan" was way ahead of its time! The fact that Manoj Kumar spotted talent in Veeru Devgn shows what a visionary he was. Golden era of Bollywood indeed!
Vikram D.
This is why I love Bollywood - the intergenerational connections and mentorship. Today's stars should learn from these stories about gratitude and paying it forward.
Sanya P.
Om Shanti to a true legend. Manoj Kumar's films shaped Indian cinema in ways we can't even measure. And Ajay's words show how classy he is - remembering those who helped his family. 👏
