Late actor Manoj Kumar sold his Juhu bungalow to self-fund Kranti: Report

When Manoj Kumar sold his Juhu Bunglow

The passing of veteran actor Manoj Kumar has left the entire nation in shock and mourning.

Known fondly as “Mr. Bharat” for his portrayal of patriotic roles, Manoj Kumar was not only an iconic figure on-screen but also an inspiration off-screen. One of the most striking examples of his dedication to his craft occurred during the making of his 1981 epic, Kranti.

As reported by News18, Manoj Kumar made a bold and extraordinary decision to sell his prized Juhu bungalow in Mumbai in order to personally fund Kranti. Originally, he had plans to use the land to build a theatre, but his passion for the film took precedence. With unwavering commitment to the project, the actor-director risked his personal assets to bring his vision to life.

Kranti became a monumental success at the box office and is still regarded as one of the most influential patriotic films in the history of Indian cinema. Released on February 13, 1981, the film focused on the revolutionary struggle of farmers and common people uniting against British rule.

The star-studded ensemble cast included Dilip Kumar, Shashi Kapoor, Hema Malini, Shatrughan Sinha, Prem Chopra, Parveen Babi, Sarika, Nirupa Roy, and Manoj Kumar himself. The film’s powerful narrative, combined with evocative music and stirring emotions, resonated deeply with audiences nationwide.

Also See: Remembering Late Manoj Kumar's work and legacy 

The screenplay, co-written by Salim-Javed and Manoj Kumar, imbued the film with dramatic intensity and profound patriotism, which led to its immense commercial success. Kranti set box office records and became the fastest-earning film of its time, despite slightly slower numbers in Mumbai and southern regions.

Also Read: Akshay Kumar, Aamir Khan and other celebs mourn the loss of veteran actor Manoj Kumar

Manoj Kumar’s journey in cinema began in 1957 with Fashion, but it was his performance in Kanch Ki Gudiya (1961) that brought him recognition. His legacy, however, remains defined by the patriotic classics he created, such as Upkar, Shaheed, Purab Aur Paschim, and, of course, Kranti.