Full Name: Harikishan Giri Goswami
Stage Name: Manoj Kumar
Date of Birth: July 24, 1937
Age: 87 years (as of 2024)
Place of Birth: Abbottabad, British India (now in Pakistan)
Nationality: Indian
Profession: Actor, Director, Producer, Screenwriter
Religion: Hinduism
Net Worth: Estimated at $10 million (as of 2024)
Early Life and Education
Harikishan Giri Goswami was Manoj Kumar’s birthplace in Abbottabad, British India. His family relocated to Delhi in 1947 following the Partition of India. Later, he took on the stage name “Manoj Kumar,” which was based on the character played by actor Dilip Kumar in the 1949 movie Shabnam. While attending Hindu College at the University of Delhi, he became quite interested in acting and movies.He was greatly impacted by patriotic themes and the films of great actors from an early age, which helped to mould his future in filmmaking. He developed his acting abilities by actively participating in cultural events and collegiate theatre. His passion for cinema, combined with his admiration for Dilip Kumar, inspired him to pursue a career in the film industry.Despite early setbacks, his talent and perseverance eventually made it possible for him to enter Bollywood, where he would go on to become one of the most renowned performers.
Career
In the late 1950s, Manoj Kumar started out in small roles in films before becoming well-known for “Hariyali Aur Rasta” (1962). With hits like “Woh Kaun Thi?” (1964), “Himalaya Ki God Mein” (1965), and “Shaheed” (1965), in which he played the insurgent Bhagat Singh, he rose to fame.
His nationalistic films, such as “Upkar” (1967), which he also directed, gave him the moniker “Bharat Kumar.” “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan,” the motto of then-prime minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, served as the inspiration for the movie. Manoj Kumar continued to direct and star in films with strong nationalistic themes such as “Purab Aur Paschim” (1970), “Roti Kapda Aur Makaan” (1974), and “Kranti” (1981).
He was regarded as one of the most renowned actors and directors of his era due to his distinctive storytelling style and powerful line delivery.
Awards and Achievements
- Padma Shri by the Government of India (1992)
- Dadasaheb Phalke Award for Lifetime Achievement (2015)
- National Film Award for Best Direction for “Upkar” (1967)
- Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award (1999)
- Multiple Filmfare Awards for Best Actor and Director
Personal Life
Manoj Kumar has two sons with Shashi Goswami, his spouse. He has always kept his personal life low-key despite his prominence, preferring to concentrate on his career and patriotic causes.
He is renowned for his moral principles, simplicity, and humility. Manoj Kumar has frequently discussed how his family and upbringing shaped his career and personal decisions. He is a loving family man who valued his relationships with his family more than making public appearances. He stayed away from the glitzy lifestyle that is frequently connected to the film industry, even at the height of his fame.
Manoj Kumar decided to lead a modest life in his later years, mostly out of the spotlight, though he did occasionally attend award shows and movie events. Fans and other performers still hold him in high regard for his contributions to film and his honourable personal behaviour.
In addition, he serves as a mentor to up-and-coming actors and filmmakers, sharing his experiences and advising them to maintain perspective while following their artistic ambitions.
Legacy and Influence
Manoj Kumar has made a lasting impact on Indian cinema, particularly in the area of patriotic films. In addition to providing spectators with entertainment, his films sparked a sense of patriotism. He had a significant role in establishing Bollywood’s patriotic film genre.
His impact is still felt today, as both fans and artists study and appreciate his work as a cinematic great.
