Manoj Kumar is a legendary actor who was active in Hindi cinema from 1950s to the 1990s. But being a great director, screenwriter, lyricist and editor over his glorious career, he is still a celebrated name in the Indian film industry and has blessed it with many great performances. In fact, he is also the recipient of a National Film Award and 7 Filmfare Awards.
As Manoj Kumar celebrates his birthday today on 24th July, here are his 5 most iconic songs:
1. Mera Rang De Basanti Chola: ‘Mera Rang De Basanti Chola’ from the 1965 film, ‘Shaheed’ is one song that every millennial or gen Z has heard at some point of time and felt shivers down their spine with that rush of patriotism. Manoj Kumar played the role of the legendary freedom fighter, Bhagat Singh in this one and no one could have aced the song or the film better than him.
2. Gore Gore Chand se Mukh Par: ‘Gore Gore Chand Se Mukh Par’ is a romantic number from the 1967 film, ‘Anita’ which Mukesh sang for Manoj Kumar. The visuals of Manoj Kumar sitting on a tree branch, singing this song to actress Sadhana is one of the most pleasing visuals ever. No wonder, it is one of his best songs.
3. Chodkar Tere Pyaar ka Daaman: ‘Chodkar Tere Pyaar ka Daaman’ is another crowd favourite song from the film, ‘Who Kaun Thi’ which was featured on the extraordinary actors, Manoj Kumar and Helen. The actor got the lip sync in this one right. The song is a treat to the eyes and Manoj Kumar showing his movies in black and white movies could not go wrong. A masterpiece indeed!
4. Ke Duniya Ek Numbari to Main Dus Numbari: ‘Ke Duniya Ek Numbari to Main Dus Numbari’ is a song from the 1976 film, ‘Dus Numbari.’ Not only was the film very entertaining but Manoj Kumar was presented in it in a very refreshing and stylish look. He wore classy shades and stylish clothes for the song and his charisma was unparalleled, making it another one of his iconic songs.
5. Zindagi Ki Na Toote Ladi: ‘Zindagi Ki Na Toote Ladi’ is an iconic number from the 1981 film, ‘Kranti.’ What makes the film as well as the song iconic is seeing both Manoj Kumar and Dilip Kumar in it together. This song too has been sung by Mukesh, who sang a lot of them for Manoj Kumar and exudes action, drama and emotion. And Manoj looks perfect n it.
So, on Manoj Kumar’s birthday today, make sure to take a trip down the memory lane and listen to some of his iconic numbers.