Bharat Ka Rahne Wala Hoon...

Mona

As India gears up to celebrate its 70th Independence Day, popular actor-director Manoj Kumar, who has had the sobriquet of ‘Bharat Kumar’, is a proud man. The man behind films like Shaheed, Upkaar, Purab Aur Paschim and Kranti still has the patriotic streak. In fact, even after 47 years, his famous song Bharat Ka Rahne Wala Hoon is much in demand. Here is more from the thespian...

Great feeling

I feel great as August 15 approaches. I am happy at the strides India has taken in different walks of life. Yes there are areas we need to work on, but I insist we must do it together as individuals, society and government.

Surging ahead

Soon after Independence, we have had inspiring leaders – Nehru gave slogan of  Aaram Haram Hai, Shastri ji that of Jai Jawan Jai Kisan; then came Indira Gandhi with Garibi Hatao. These leaders had a vision. Then Vajpayee tried solving the most irksome issue by visiting Pakistan, only to be back-stabbed with Kargil. Now we have Modi ji, who has shown promise and wants to revolutionise the country; we must give him time.

Masala mix

Sometime back I received a letter from the External Affairs Ministry and they wanted to use the song Bharat Ka Rahne Wala Hoon for Prime Minister’s Israel visit. I happily gave the permission. Nationalism in films is as significant as it is in society. We in India don’t have a sandwich culture, but thali one. We have to serve everything — right from entertainment, music to story to message. 

Dangal fan

The last movie that I enjoyed was Dangal. Not only is that a beautiful story, but also filmed well.  It also gives a powerful message of women empowerment. Not only can girls pick up sports, but something like kushti too.

Work hard

My message to readers is to work hard towards the development of the nation and to enjoy August 15!

mona@tribunemail.com