Action Director Mohan Baggad Reminisces About Dilip Kumar's Playful Teasing of Manoj Kumar

Mumbai, April 13 (NationPress) Renowned action director Mohan Baggad recounted a charming story featuring two late legendary figures of Indian cinema—Dilip Kumar and Manoj Kumar.

In a heartfelt reflection, director Baggad shared a humorous memory that unveiled a rarely seen aspect of the late stars Manoj and Dilip. Known for their strong camaraderie and mutual affection for the Punjabi language, the two legends infused their cultural heritage into every facet of their lives—so much so that, as Baggad affectionately remarked, “They’d even sleep in Punjabi!”

A particularly endearing episode stood out. Manoj Kumar, always composed, was once providing instructions while comfortably reclining on a bed. Seizing the moment for some playful teasing, the ever-witty Dilip couldn't resist making a joke.

While reminiscing, Mohan Baggad told IANS, “Both Manoj and Dilip were very fond of Punjabi. They’d even sleep in Punjabi! I recall one day, Manoj was lying on a bed giving directions. Dilip teased him and remarked, ‘You’re still young, and you’re directing from the bed!’ The next day, Manoj covered the bed with a proper bedspread and continued giving directions from there. For two or three days, Mr. Dilip kept saying, ‘I’ve spent my whole life on chairs, but sitting on a bed like this feels fantastic.’ So they both ended up sitting on the bed and having long chats. There were no chairs—it was all so relaxed and full of laughter. Working with Mr. Manoj was always a delight.”

Mohan Baggad also shared some unforgettable experiences from the making of the iconic film “Kranti.” Reflecting on one of his treasured memories, Baggad narrated a humorous incident from the very first day of filming. The scene involved Parveen Babi and Hema Malini in a dramatic fight sequence. However, amidst the action's intensity, it was Manoj Kumar’s off-screen presence that infused the set with unexpected warmth and humor.

Recalling his memorable interaction with Manoj, Mohan Baggad shared, “I still remember the first day of filming Kranti. There was a fight scene featuring Parveen Babi and Hemaji. We were explaining the scene to them, and naturally, Manoj ji slipped into Punjabi while giving directions. It was such a fun and light-hearted moment. Since both actresses didn’t understand anything, I had to explain the entire shot to them again.”

The legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, affectionately known as ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his iconic patriotic roles, passed away on April 4 at the age of 87 at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. He was laid to rest with full state honors in Mumbai on April 5, 2025.

As for Dilip Kumar, who starred in over 65 films across nearly five decades, he passed away on July 7, 2021, in Mumbai at the age of 98 due to prostate cancer.