By
Tanveer Zaidi (Actor-Author-Educationist)
Senior Journalist And Film Trade Expert Sharad Rai Pays Heartfelt Tribute To The Departed Soul!
Manoj Kumar, known as Bharat Kumar for his patriotic films, was a prominent Indian actor and director, remembered for his strong moral compass and films that championed national integrity and social issues.
He passed away on April 4, 2025, at the age of 87.
Bollywood Reporter met senior Journalist and famous Film Trade Expert Sharad Rai to know some details about the actor that makes Manoj Kumar special.
Sharad Rai spoke, ” Manoj Kumar has given many hit films of different genres but he was specifically known for Patriotic Films.
His films, such as Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Kranti, are known for their strong patriotic themes and messages, earning him the nickname Bharat Kumar.”
Sharad Rai further tells,
“His characters often represented an idealist hero with a strong moral compass, standing for national integrity and raising his voice against social injustice, foreign influence, unemployment, and corruption.”
I asked, ” What was his impact on Indian Cinema?”
Famous Journalist Sharad Rai replied, ” Manoj Kumar’s films played a vital role in shaping the cultural consciousness of the country, and he is considered an icon of Indian cinema.”
I asked, ” But, why he stopped acting?”
Renowned Trade Expert Sharad Rai spoke, “After Kranti in 1981, Manoj Kumar’s career began to decline, and films he starred in such as Kalyug Aur Ramayan (1987), Santosh (1989), Clerk (1989) and Deshwasi (1991), all flopped at the box-office.
He quit acting after his appearance in the 1995 film Maidan-E-Jung.”
I asked, “
Kindly tell about Felicitations, Honours and Awards that he has recieved?”
Sharad Raisayss, “He received numerous awards, including the Padma Shri in 1992 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest honor in Indian cinema.
In 2015. I would like to add one of my precious moments that I would cherish till my last breath.
I was honoured by All India Journalist Association (Akhil Bhartiya Patrakar Vikas Parishad) and my felicitation was jointly done by hon’ble Governor of Maharashtra Mr.Ram Naik and legendary Manoj Kumar.”
“What was his influence on Bollywood?” I asked.
Sharad Rai spoke,” Manoj Kumar’s work inspired a resurgence of patriotic cinema in India, and his legacy continues to influence filmmakers and actors.”
“Take a film for which Manoj Kumar will be remembered for?” I asked.
Sharad Rai says, ” It’s not easy to select one such film because there are many, but if you insist, then I will select three of his films.
They are Shaheed, Upkar and Purab Aur Paschim. These films are considered masterpieces and will go down in history for today’s generation to watch.”
“Would you like to say something more about the legend? I said.
Sharad Rai replied, ” Yes, firstly I would like to pay my heartfelt tribute to the departed soul.
I would request our honorable PM Mr.
Narendra Modi jee to kindly honour the legendary actor Manoj Kumar with Bharat Ratna, even in absence of him physically.”
Manoj Kumar’s original name is Harikrishna Giri Goswami, but he changed his name to Manoj Kumar to make it easier.
Manoj Kumar, the legend, said Goodbye to the Globe in Mumbai on April 4, 2025, after a prolonged illness.
Bollywood Reporterpays its sincerest Tributes to the legendary Actor, Director, Producer, and Lyricist Manoj Kumar.
