Some interesting facts about Upkar” a classic Bollywood film directed by Manoj Kumar

“Upkar” is a classic Bollywood film directed by Manoj Kumar and released in 1967. It was a patriotic drama that garnered immense popularity and critical acclaim. Here are some interesting facts about the movie:

1. Patriotism and Social Message: “Upkar” is known for its strong patriotic and social message. The film portrayed the values of selfless service, love for the nation, and the importance of contributing to the welfare of society.
2. Iconic Performance by Manoj Kumar: Manoj Kumar, who is also known as “Bharat Kumar” for his patriotic roles, played the lead role in the film. His performance as Bharat, a virtuous and selfless farmer, received widespread acclaim and contributed significantly to the film’s success.
3. “Mere Desh Ki Dharti”: The song “Mere Desh Ki Dharti” from “Upkar” became an anthem for patriotism and is still revered by Indians. Composed by Kalyanji-Anandji and written by Gulshan Bawra, the song beautifully captures the essence of love for one’s country and the pride of being an Indian.
4. National Film Award: “Upkar” received the National Film Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration in 1968. The film’s theme of national unity and social welfare resonated with audiences and critics alike.
5. Theatrical Success: “Upkar” was a commercial success at the box office. It not only became one of the highest-grossing films of 1967 but also established Manoj Kumar as one of the prominent actors and directors in the Hindi film industry.
6. Sequel: The success of “Upkar” led to a sequel titled “Purab Aur Paschim” (1970), also directed by Manoj Kumar. In this film, Manoj Kumar reprised his role as Bharat, and the movie further explored the themes of patriotism and cultural differences.
7. Influential Impact: “Upkar” left a lasting impact on Indian cinema and society. It inspired many other filmmakers to make patriotic films and influenced generations of Indians to take pride in their country and contribute to its progress.

“Upkar” remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its patriotic themes, memorable songs, and powerful performances. It continues to be remembered as one of the greatest films in Indian cinema history.