“Zameen toh maa hoti hai … aur maa ke tukde nahi kiye jaate”…Every time Manoj Kumar delivered such impactful lines in his iconic films, the theatres would be filled with a thunderous applause. Referred to as Bharat Kumar for portraying an array of nationalistic roles, he epitomized patriotism in films to a level that still remains unmatched.
Zee Classic, with its brand promise of Woh Zamana Kare Deewana celebrates the legacy of the veteran actor with a dedicated Manoj Kumar Festival. Starting 5th November, watch some of the veteran actor’s memorable films on the coming three Saturdays back to back starting at 6:30 PM.
The three week-long festival kickstarts with ‘Upkar’ on 5th November at 6:30 PM. A cult film, this one starred Manoj Kumar as a war hero and dwelled on the story of two brothers divided by Indian and Western values. Penned by Manoj Kumar himself, the inspiration came from the then Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri who had told him to make a film on ‘Jai Jawaan, Jai Kisan’.
Next in line comes ‘Kranti’ on 12th November at 6:30 PM. Set in the pre-Independent era, the film chronicles Indian freedom struggle. Directed by Manoj Kumar, the movie stars him in the lead along with an ensemble mix of Dilip Kumar, Shashi Kapoor, Hema Malini and Shatrughan Sinha. When Sanga (Dilip Kumar), a loyalist of King Laxman Singh is falsely charged with killing his master, he escapes and forms an army of rebels to drive the British out of India.
Lastly, Zee Classic presents ‘Kalyug Aur Ramayan’ on 19th November at 6:30 PM. Starring Manoj Kumar as Lord Hanuman, this film was a modern day rendition of Ramayana and its characters trapped in an urban society.