Veteran actor and director Manoj Kumar passed away on Friday morning at the age of 87, leaving the entire nation in shock and deep sorrow. Fondly known as ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his patriotic films, the legendary actor breathed his last at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. Manoj Kumar’s name is synonymous with movies and songs that celebrated patriotism. While the actor was known for his brilliant performances across genres, films like Purab Aur Paschim, Upkar, and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan earned him the nickname ‘Bharat Kumar’.
Did you know? The actor was born as Harikrishna Giri Goswami but changed his name to Manoj Kumar as he was an ardent fan of Dilip Kumar. Manoj Kumar was Dilip’s character name in the film Shabnam. He got his first break in Hindi cinema in the 1957 film Fashion, where he played a cameo as a beggar. The actor bagged his first leading role in the 1960 movie Kaanch Ki Gudia.
On the passing away of a legend, let’s remember him with his five most iconic patriotic songs.
Hai Preet Jahan Ki Reet Sada (Purab Aur Paschim, 1970)
Hai Preet Jahan Ki Reet Sada” is one of the most popular patriotic songs we grew up hearing during our school’s Independence and Republic Day events. Sung by Mahendra Kapoor, the song is from the film Purab Aur Paschim, with lyrics penned by Indeevar.
Aye Vatan Aye Vatan Humko Teri Kasam (Shaheed, 1965)
Aye Vatan Aye Vatan Humko Teri Kasam,” a song from Shaheed, never fails to spark patriotic fervor among Indians. Legendary singer Mohammad Rafi lent his voice to the track, while Prem Dhawan penned the lyrics.
Mera Rang De Basanti Chola (Shaheed, 1965)
Mera Rang De Basanti Chola” from the 1965 film Shaheed still gives us goosebumps and deepens the patriotic feeling. Sung by Mukesh, Mahendra Kapoor, Lata Mangeshkar, and Rajendra Mehta, the track was penned by Prem Dhawan.
Mere Desh Ki Dharti (Upkar, 1967)
The 1967 film Upkar‘s song “Mere Desh Ki Dharti” is a patriotic ode that celebrates the spirit and richness of our motherland. Mahendra Kapoor lent his vocals to the track, which was written by lyricist Gulshan Bawra.
Sarfaroshi ki Tamanna (Shaheed, 1965)
Even today, Ram Prasad Bismil’s “Sarfaroshi Ki Tamanna” continues to ignite the spirit of freedom among Indians. Legendary singers Mohammed Rafi, Manna Dey, and Rajendra Mehta lent their voices to the song.
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