Manoj Kumar to be honoured with Dadasaheb Phalke Award

Yesteryear Bollywood star Manoj Kumar will be awarded the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award for his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema.

The 78-year-old actor, who already has seven Filmfare Awards to his credit, will be bestowed with a Swarn Kamal (Golden Lotus), a cash prize of Rs. 10 lakhs and a shawl.

Kumar, who is popular for making patriotic movies, was honoured with the Padma Shri by the Government of India in 1992.

He is remembered for his films Hariyali Aur Raasta, Woh Kaun Thi?, Himalaya Ki God Mein, Do Badan, Upkar, Patthar Ke Sanam, Neel Kamal, Purab Aur Paschim, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, and Kranti.

Born on July 24, 1937 in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Kumar came to Delhi at the age of 10-years, when his family fled to India due to partition. After graduating from Hindu College, University of Delhi, he decided to enter the film industry.

After making a little-noticed debut in Fashion in 1957, Manoj landed his first leading role in Kaanch Ki Gudia (1960) opposite Saida Khan.

Kumar's image as the patriotic hero started with the 1965 film Shaheed, based on the life of Bhagat Singh.