From ‘Upkar’ to ‘Shor’: Revisiting Manoj Kumar's iconic roles & legacy

Manoj Kumar, also known 'Bharat Kumar,' passed away aged 87 in Mumbai. Known for his patriotic films, the legendary actor left a distinct cinematic legacy.
While we mourn his demise, let us take you through his brilliant onscreen journey spanning decades.

Tracing Manoj Kumar's cinematic journey

Manoj Kumar's name was synonymous with the ideals of patriotism, honesty, and sacrifice in Indian cinema. His career, spanning over five decades, left a mark on the hearts of audiences for how uniquely specific his brand of films was.

His portrayal in films like Upkar (1967) earned him the title 'Bharat Kumar.' The film, directed by his brother, was an instant hit and established him as a symbol of Indian patriotism. In fact, in an interview with Lehren Retro during the ‘60s, he talked about how, after being given the name of Bharat Kumar by his fans, he "never touched a heroine" onscreen.

Not only did this movie resonate with the audience, but songs from the film, like ‘Mere Desh Ki Dharti’ from ‘Upkar’, became patriotic anthems.

Via his films, Manoj Kumar reflected the changing socio-political landscape of India in the 1960s and 1970s. Films like 'Purab Aur Paschim' (1970) dealt with the theme of cultural clashes, presenting a sharp contrast between Indian values and Western influences.

Kumar's characters showed how important it was to stay rooted in one's tradition and culture, making it especially relevant in post-independence India. Another of his landmark films was the 1972 movie 'Shor'. The film showcased his versatility and proved his ability to portray such a raw and emotional role.

His other notable films include ‘Rakhwala’ (1971), 'Kalyug Aur Ramayan' (1981), 'Punarjanma' (1972), 'Bahadur' (1971), 'Himalaya Ki God Mein' (1965), 'Waqt Ka Badshah' (1989). Despite the changing dynamics of Indian cinema, Kumar’s films remained relevant.

Awards and contributions

In recognition of his contribution to Indian cinema, Manoj Kumar earned several prestigious accolades throughout his five-decade-long career. In 1992, the Government of India gave him with the Padma Shri, one of the nation’s highest civilian awards. He also earned the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999, celebrating four decades of cinematic excellence. In 2016, he was honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

Clearly, Manoj Kumar was one of those legendary actors who cannot be replaced.