• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Legendary Bollywood actor and filmmaker, Manoj Kumar, passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai. He was admitted to Kokilaben Dhirubai Ambani Hospital, where he succumbed to heart-related complications, with decompensated liver cirrhosis as a secondary cause, as confirmed by the hospital's medical certificate. Kumar was renowned for his iconic roles in patriotic films like Purab Aur Paschim and Kranti, earning him the nickname 'Bharat Kumar'. His contribution to Indian cinema is immense and his films continue to inspire national pride among audiences.

As fans remember the late actor, do you know that Manoj Kumar was upset with the 2007 film Om Shanti Om, specifically one scene, that he even filed charges against Shah Rukh Khan and director Farah Khan? Here is why:

Om Shanti Om Scene hurt Manoj Kumar

The scene in question featured Shah Rukh Khan's character, Om Prakash Makhija, attempting to gain entry to a movie premiere by using a pass bearing Manoj Kumar's name. The police officers at the entrance failed to recognise Om due to his signature gesture, allowing him to momentarily gain access. However, the humour was short-lived, as Om was soon discovered, beaten with sticks by the guards and ultimately shooed away from the premises. This portrayal of Manoj Kumar's iconic persona and gestures was perceived as disrespectful by the veteran actor, leading to his public outcry.

According to a report in India Today, the lawyer had said, “I am hurt. Shah Rukh Khan has injured my soul. It's a conspiracy to humiliate and ridicule me. This is not filmmaking...My devotion to filmdom for the last 50 years has been insulted," he had said. He had also demanded Re 1 as damages in the defamation suit as “the reputation of Kumar is invaluable and priceless.”

SRK issued an apology

Later, Shah Rukh Khan apologised to the veteran actor, stating, “I was completely wrong. If he is hurt, I apologise.”

The controversy surrounding Om Shanti Om resurfaced in 2013 when the film was re-released in Japan with the contentious scene intact. Manoj Kumar sought legal action, demanding ₹100 crore in damages from Shah Rukh Khan and Eros International, but later withdrew the case due to disappointment over the lack of accountability.