Dadasaheb Phalke Award winner Manoj Kumar: Know lesser known facts about the veteran actor

New Delhi: Yesteryear actor and director who enthralled people for decades with his myriad films as an actor, director, producer and writer will be honoured with the prestigious 47th Dadasaheb Phalke Award for the year 2015.

Manoj Kumar, 78, whose real name is Harikrishna Giri Goswami – has contributed to the Hindi cinema with his ace acting and direction skills. Some of his movies will remain forever embalmed as classic Bollywood hits. Here's a look at the actor's lesser know facts:

• Manoj Kumar is popularly known as Mr. Bharat for his consistent portrayal in patriotic movies.
   
• His original name is Harikrishna Giri Goswami – he only adopted the name Manoj inspired by his ideal Dillip Kumar's role of Manoj in 'Shabnam'. Such was his fondness for the actor!
   
• Manoj Kumar was born on 24 July 1937.
   
• Kumar was born in Abbottabad now in Pakistan.
   
• When he was just 10, he and his family had to leave Abbottabad and go to Delhi. He got his graduation from the Hindu College.
   
• From a very young age, Manoj was inclined towards movies.
   
• He landed his first role as an old mane in First role 'Fashion' in 1957, and later did 'Kaanch Ki Gudiya', 'Piya Milan Ki Aas', 'Reshmi Roomal'.
   
• He appeared with Sadhana in 'Woh Kaun Thi' in 1964.
   
• Raj Khosla always praised Manoj's writing skills – until they started collaborating for their films.
   
• He gained popularity after making 'Who Kaun Thi' and 'Hariyali Aur Raasta'.
   
• Manoj shared many memorable on-screen chemistry with Mala Sinha and Sadhana.
   
• He made a number of patriotic films which started with 'Shaheed' – Portraying the role of Bhagat Singh.
   
• He wrote the script of 'Upkaar' after being praised by then Prime Minister, in a train journey. He received the award for Best Director, Best Story, Best Dialogue, and Best Movie.
   
• Rumour has it, once while Dharmendra wanted to quit trying his luck in Bombay and return, it was Manoj who stopped him and offered help to keep the struggle on.
   
• Manoj Kumar and Hema Malini also became a hit jodi. In 'Aus Numbri'. The movie was also hailed for its music and chemistry.
   
• His dream came true when he directed Dillip Kumar in 'Kranti'. Dillip played the role of Manoj's father. It was a patriotic movie and received many praises.
   
• He was married to Sashi Goswami and was blessed with two sons.