Anupam Kher remembers legendary actor Manoj Kumar, says his films deepened his 'patriotism'

ANI April 4, 2025 158 views

Veteran actor Anupam Kher paid emotional tribute to legendary filmmaker Manoj Kumar, who passed away on April 4. Kher shared how Kumar's films, particularly Upkaar, profoundly shaped his understanding of patriotism during India's early post-independence years. Known as 'Bharat Kumar', Manoj Kumar was an iconic figure in Indian cinema, famous for films that celebrated national pride. His contributions to cinema went beyond acting, as he was also an accomplished director who won national recognition for his work.

"Manoj Kumar ji has a huge contribution in awakening the spirit of patriotism in my heart" - Anupam Kher
Mumbai, April 4: Actor Anupam Kher fondly remembered legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, who passed away early Friday morning.

Key Points

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Anupam Kher recalls first watching Upkaar as a pivotal cinematic moment

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Manoj Kumar known as 'Bharat Kumar' for iconic patriotic roles

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Legendary filmmaker passed away on April 4 in Mumbai

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Kumar's films deeply influenced national sentiment

The 'Wednesday' actor took to Instagram to share a video, recalling his childhood memories of watching Manoj Kumar's films and also spoke about how Kumar's movies played a major role in shaping his feelings of patriotism.

"The first film I saw in my life, which I remember very well, was Upkaar. Films were shown in our locality. So this film was my first introduction to Manoj Kumar ji," Kher said in the video.

"Manoj Kumar ji has a huge contribution in awakening the spirit of patriotism in my heart. India had become independent. It had been only 15-20 years and the fight for revolution, the freedom movement, everything was fresh. On top of that, Manoj Kumar ji's films, that feeling of patriotism kept on deepening," he added.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIA64XeiNtL/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

The legendary actor and filmmaker passed away at 4:03 a.m. on April 4 at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai after a prolonged illness.

Born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Kumar became an iconic figure in Indian cinema, especially in the 1960s and 1970s. The actor was affectionately known as "Bharat Kumar" for his iconic roles in patriotic films such as Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Shaheed.

In addition to his acting career, Kumar made significant contributions as a director and producer. His directorial debut Upkar (1967) won the National Film Award for Second Best Feature Film.

Other successful films directed by him include Purab Aur Paschim (1970) and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974), both of which were major successes, both critically and commercially.

Reader Comments

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Priya S.
Manoj Kumar's films were truly special. Watched Upkar with my grandfather who would tear up every time. That generation connected so deeply with his portrayal of Indian values 🇮🇳
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Rahul K.
While I respect his contributions, some of Kumar's films feel a bit dated now with their overt nationalism. But no denying his impact on Bollywood's golden era.
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Anjali M.
Roti Kapda Aur Makaan was way ahead of its time! The social commentary still feels relevant today. RIP to a true legend ✨
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Vikram P.
My dad used to imitate his signature style - the hand on chest during emotional scenes. Manoj Kumar defined patriotism in cinema. End of an era.
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Sunita R.
Beautiful tribute by Anupam Kher. Their generation of actors had such respect for each other. Today's stars could learn from this.
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Neeraj D.
Purab Aur Paschim was my introduction to his work. The contrast between India and the West was so well portrayed. Legendary filmmaker 👑

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Anupam Kher Manoj Kumar Bollywood Patriotic Cinema Indian Films Upkaar
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