Manoj Kumar avoided histrionics when he wanted to show strong emotion on screen. Brooding silences, furrowed brows, and his trademark move of covering his face with his hand did the trick. The gesture became so iconic that even Shah Rukh Khan couldn’t resist parodying it in Om Shanti Om. Kumar wasn’t amused. He even filed a Rs 100 crore lawsuit over it, though he eventually dropped it.
The incomparably accomplished Manoj Saab shared many unrevealed incidents with me over the years. In one of my last conversations with him, I asked why he hadn’t directed a film in so long. “I haven’t been able to make any films because of my back problem. Sadly, I no longer have the comfort of working with Manoj Kumar the actor. He was capable of telling home truths in the most understated manner. Now I have to choose from today’s stars. But Akshay Kumar respects me. In his film Namastey London with Katrina Kaif, he said, ‘If you want to know what India all is about, take a look at a DVD of Purab Aur Paschim and you’ll know.’ In fact, Purab Aur Paschim is the mother of many subsequent films.”
Indian entertainment is rediscovering its cultural roots and audiences are embracing it with open arms. Ram Navami 2025 arrives not only as a spiritual celebration but also as a moment for modern storytelling to honour ancient legacies. From mythological deep dives to contemporary interpretations of dharma and justice, OTT platforms are offering compelling content that channels the spirit of Lord Rama. These five titles, streaming across leading platforms, are must-watches for those seeking a blend of tradition and contemporary storytelling.
