From Woh Kaun Thi? to Purab Aur Paschim: Must-watch classics of the legendary Manoj Kumar

Manoj Kumar passed away on April 4, 2025 at Kokilaben Dhirubai Ambani hospital in Mumbai. He was 87. The legendary actor and filmmaker leaves behind a treasure trove of his work that generations can enjoy and learn from. We look at 12 of his films

Updated On: 2025-04-04 09:40 AM IST

Compiled by : Athulya Nambiar

Manoj Kumar
Manoj Kumar
Shor (1972) 
Manoj Kumar not only played the lead role in the film but was also the writer, producer and director of this drama narrating the story of a father-son. It narrated the struggles of a father to get his son's voice back

Shor (1972) 

Manoj Kumar not only played the lead role in the film but was also the writer, producer and director of this drama narrating the story of a father-son. It narrated the struggles of a father to get his son's voice back

Neel Kamal (1968)

Sita's sleepwalking turns out to be a cause of concern to her husband and family. When they investigate, they realize that her current behaviour is linked to her previous life. The film also stars Waheeda Rehman and Raaj Kumar.

Purab Aur Paschim (1970)

It is a patriotic drama film starring Manoj Kumar and Saira Banu.The story revolves around Bharat, son of a freedom fighter, who travels to Britain for studies. In Britain, he finds that the NRIs are apprehensive about Indians and Indian culture, but are open to Western culture. Can Bharat bring a change in their thinking?

Patthar Ke Sanam (1967)

Meena, a wealthy heiress, and Taruna, her friend, decide to play a prank on her father's new manager, Rajesh. However, the prank backfires resulting in acrimony between them. The romantic drama also stars Waheeda Rehman and Mumtaz.

Upkar (1967)

His directorial debut, this film was inspired by Lal Bahadur Shastri’s slogan "Jai Jawan Jai Kisan". It made him famous as Bharat Kumar.

Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974)

Bharat is overwhelmed by the circumstances that follow his father's demise and is unable to afford the basic needs of food, clothing and shelter making him rethink on living a life of honesty. Directed and written by Manoj Kumar, the film also stars Amitabh Bachchan, Shashi Kapoor, Zeenat Aman, Moushumi Chatterjee

Yaadgar (1970)

Story of an honest young man Bhanu who learns that politicians, and the wealthy, are more than just cunning and deceptive. The film stars Nutan opposite Manoj Kumar

Woh Kaun Thi? (1964)

Anand, a well-respected doctor, is plagued by a series of eerie events after he gives a lift to a mysterious woman. He tries to find out the truth, but circumstances make him lose his sanity.

Shaheed (1965)

A biographical film on the life of Bhagat Singh, this patriotic drama is one of Manoj Kumar’s finest performances.

Sanyasi (1975)

Ram is raised in a religious atmosphere and refuses to marry Aarti, the woman his mother has arranged for him. This makes her bequeath her estate to his cousin when he falls in love with her instead.
 

Dus Numbri (1976)

Inspector Shiv escapes after he is falsely implicated, causing distress to his family. While his wife goes insane, his son becomes a gangster and they are only reunited years later by a twist of fate. An action-packed film that was a major hit at the box office.

Kranti (1981)

A historical drama about India’s freedom struggle, featuring a stellar cast, including Dilip Kumar and Hema Malini.

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