Mumbai: Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan recently paid a heartfelt tribute to legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, calling him “Bharat” — a title the veteran earned through decades of patriotic cinema that defined an era.
This tribute comes as a touching moment of respect, especially considering the past friction between the two icons due to a scene in the 2007 blockbuster Om Shanti Om.
A Tribute Beyond the Past
Shah Rukh took to social media to express his admiration and gratitude for Manoj Kumar’s contributions to Indian cinema. In his message, he said:
“You will always be Bharat to us. Your legacy, patriotism, and love for cinema are unmatched. Thank you for inspiring generations.”
His words instantly struck a chord with fans, fellow actors, and cinephiles, with many praising the King Khan for his humility and grace in recognizing a legend.
The 2007 Controversy
Manoj Kumar and Shah Rukh Khan were once embroiled in a legal tussle after Om Shanti Om featured a comedic sequence that spoofed Kumar’s signature salute pose. The scene didn’t sit well with the veteran actor, who filed a defamation suit seeking ₹100 crore in damages, claiming the film mocked his patriotic image.
The controversy made headlines, but the producers, including Shah Rukh Khan and Farah Khan, later apologized and edited the scene out of international prints. Over the years, the issue quietly faded, and both stars moved on professionally.
Why Manoj Kumar is Known as “Bharat”
Often referred to as Bharat Kumar, Manoj Kumar is best known for films like Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Kranti. His movies, centered around themes of patriotism and Indian values, earned him massive respect and a permanent place in the hearts of Indian audiences.
His portrayal of nationalistic characters made him the cinematic embodiment of patriotism, inspiring countless filmmakers and actors.
Fans React with Pride
After Shah Rukh’s tribute, fans flooded social media with nostalgic posts and tributes of their own. Many admired the actor’s maturity in setting aside past issues to honor a true legend.
One fan commented, “Two legends, one moment. Thank you SRK for showing us what grace looks like.”
Conclusion
This tribute by Shah Rukh Khan isn’t just about words — it’s a symbol of respect, forgiveness, and admiration across generations. Despite their past differences, the gesture stands as a reminder of the deep-rooted respect that binds the Indian film fraternity together.