Manoj Kumar’s” “Roti Kapada Aur Makaan” was a critically acclaimed film
Manoj Kumar’s”
“Roti Kapada Aur Makaan” was a critically acclaimed film
Legendary actor Writer-Filmmaker Late Manoj Kumar’s film Roti Kapada Aur Makaan was 70’s one of the most socially conscious films.
It dealt with the essential needs of the common man — food, clothing, and shelter — through a powerful narrative of struggle and sacrifice. Manoj Kumar played Bharat, an educated man burdened with the responsibility of his family. His attempt to uphold his ideals results in getting betrayed by the system and even his lover, played by Zeenat Aman. The film explores how economic hardships can challenge moral boundaries.
The ensemble cast comprised Amitabh Bachchan, Shashi Kapoor, Zeenat Aman, and Moushumi Chatterjee, each delivering memorable performances. Bachchan as the disillusioned younger brother added gravitas and fire. The film’s songs, composed by Laxmikant-Pyarelal with lyrics by Verma Malik, became iconic — especially “Aur Nahin Bas Aur Nahin” and “Main Na Bhoolunga.” Cinematic sequences like Bharat’s speech on the exploitation of the poor gave the film a political weight seldom seen in mainstream cinema.
Roti Kapada Aur Makaan was a blockbuster, which won both critical acclaim and popular love and emerged as a symbol of the common man’s voice and marked a significant moment in Indian film history when commercial cinema embraced socio-political themes.
As of now, the film is hailed as a classic that effectively blended drama, romance, patriotism, and a
entrenched message on inequality.
News Edit KV Raman
