Born in 1937 and witnessing the traumatic partition of India at the age of 10, Harikrishan Goswami must have carried a deep emotional scar that would later fuel a sense of national pride, which he was about to show entire world decades later as Manoj Kumar.

Manoj Kumar’s legacy in Indian cinema can be defined by his deep love for the country, which he expressed through his unforgettable roles in films that resonated with millions of Indians.

Today, Luv My India pays a tribute to the man who, through his work, not only entertained but also inspired a nation.

For Manoj Kumar, films were not just a form of entertainment but a medium for social change. He understood the power cinema has and used it to communicate the idea of India.

An India which was — understanding the importance of agriculture in Upkar, remembering freedom fighters in Shaheed and celebrating the greatness of Indian cultural values in Purab aur Paschim, all while highlighting legitimate questions in Roti, Kapda aur Makaan.

His characters were often simple, humble individuals who stood up for the values of truth, justice and nationalism, encouraging audiences to be proud of their heritage and work towards building a better India.

The heroes of his stories were the people of India who were proud of India and followed its culture unapologetically. He wanted every Indian to resonate with his idea of India when he stood in front of everyone and said, “Iss Dharti Pe Maine Janam Liya, Yeh Soch Ke Mai Itrata Hun.”

It was his films that effectively and proudly put out the contribution India has made to the world. His famous line ‘Zero diya mere Bharat ne’ from Purab aur Paschim resonates with every Indian who wants to take pride on their motherland.

After the success of Upkar, where he played the role of an idealistic and patriotic man named Bharat, the country started referring him as "Bharat Kumar,” a title that he cherished forever.

The title was more than just a nickname because it perfectly summed up his connection with every Indian who is willing to stand up for his country. He wasn’t just an actor, he was a storyteller who used cinema as a medium to unite a nation.

In every frame he featured and every act he performed, he made us realise that true patriotism is not just about love for India but also about believing in the power of the yourself to transform it.

From the whole team of Luv My India, we pay a tribute to the man who made us realise that patriotism is not just a word, it is a feeling instilled deep within the heart of every Indian.

We are sure that his idea of India will resonate with all of us and his voice will forever echo in the spirit of India, saying “Hai Preet Jahaan Ki Reet Sada, Main Geet Wahaan Ke Gaata Hun; Bharat Ka Rehne Wala Hun, Bharat Ki Baat Sunata Hun.”