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Veteran actor Manoj Kumar one of Indian cinemas most revered figures passed away at the age of 87 due to heart-related complications. Fondly called Bharat Kumar he became popular among audiences for his powerful performances especially in the films based on patriotism. Today we will discuss a cult classic film of the legendary actor-filmmaker that was inspired by Lal Bahadur Shastris slogan Jai Jawan Jai Kisan. How Manoj Kumar came with idea of Upkar? Yes we are talking about the 1967 film Upkar. It was Manoj Kumars first film as a director and became one of his most loved works. According to reports after Lal Bahadur Shastri attended the premier of Shaheed he told Kumar to make a film on his slogan Jai Jawan Jai Kisan. Reportedly Manoj wrote the story of Upkar while coming back to Bombay through train. Alongside Kumar Upkar starred Asha Parekh Prem Chopra Pran Kamini Kaushal and Madan Puri. The song Mere Desh Ki Dharti became one of the most popular patriotic songs and is still played during Independence and Republic Day celebrations. Rajesh Khanna and Shashi Kapoor were offered a part? According to reports Rajesh Khanna was first approached to play Manoj Kumars brothers role in the film. But due to prior commitments he backed out of the film and then Prem Chopra was finalised. After that Shashi Kapoor was asked too. The Deewar actor was ready to play the part but Manoj replaced him as he was worried that portraying a grey-shade character might hamper his status. Upkar Box Office Collection Upon release in theatres on August 11 1967 Upkar became a commercial and critical success. Made in a reported budget of Rs 1.5 crore the film grossed around Rs 7 crore becoming a silver jubilee hit. The film also earned a National Award for Second Best Feature Film and was later remade in Telugu as Padipantalu in 1976.