Sanjeev Kumar rare photo: K.C. Bokadia shares 1972 'Rivaaj' set memory
Synopsis
Filmmaker K.C. Bokadia has unearthed a rare behind-the-scenes photograph with Sanjeev Kumar from the 1972 film 'Rivaaj' — a candid image from over five decades ago that puts the spotlight back on one of Hindi cinema's most celebrated actors, who died at just 47 and left behind an irreplaceable body of work.
Key Takeaways
Bokadia shared a rare throwback photo with late actor Sanjeev Kumar from the sets of 'Rivaaj' on social media. 'Rivaaj' was released in 1972 and starred Sanjeev Kumar , Mala Sinha , Shatrughan Sinha , Farida Jalal , and Nazir Hussain .
Sanjeev Kumar, born Harihar Jethalal Jariwala , passed away on 6 November 1985 at age 47 after a heart attack.
His acclaimed films include 'Sholay' , 'Koshish' , 'Aandhi' , 'Angoor' , and 'Mausam' .
Bokadia recently released his latest film, 'Teesri Begum' .
Veteran filmmaker K.C. Bokadia has shared a rare, previously unseen photograph alongside legendary actor Sanjeev Kumar, captured on the sets of their 1972 film 'Rivaaj'. The image, posted on Bokadia's social media account, shows the two in candid conversation during a break from shooting — a quiet moment from over five decades ago that has now resurfaced to remind audiences of the actor's enduring legacy.
The Tribute Post
Bokadia accompanied the photograph with a heartfelt caption in Hindi: 'Film 'Rivaaj' ke set par mahaan abhineta swargiya Sanjeev Kumar ji ke saath bitaya gaya ek yaadgaar pal. Unki saadgi, abhinay ki gehraai aur vyaktitva aaj bhi prerna dete hain. Saadar naman.' Translated, the message reads: 'A memorable moment spent with the legendary late actor Sanjeev Kumar on the sets of the film Rivaaj. His simplicity, depth as an actor, and personality continue to inspire even today. My respectful tribute.'
About the 1972 Film 'Rivaaj'
Released in 1972, 'Rivaaj' featured an ensemble cast that included Sanjeev Kumar, Mala Sinha, Shatrughan Sinha, Farida Jalal, and Nazir Hussain. The film stands as one of many collaborations that defined the golden era of Hindi cinema, a period when character-driven storytelling was at its peak.
Sanjeev Kumar: A Legacy That Endures
Born Harihar Jethalal Jariwala, Sanjeev Kumar is widely regarded as one of the finest actors Indian cinema has ever produced. His filmography reads like a masterclass in range — from the brooding intensity of 'Sholay' and 'Trishul' to the nuanced vulnerability of 'Koshish' and 'Mausam', and the sharp comic timing of 'Angoor'. Other celebrated titles include 'Aandhi', 'Anamika', 'Naya Din Nai Raat', and 'Pati Patni Aur Woh'. He passed away on 6 November 1985 at the age of 47 following a heart attack, leaving behind a body of work that continues to be studied and celebrated.
K.C. Bokadia's Career and Recent Work
Bokadia himself is a significant figure in Hindi commercial cinema, with a filmography spanning several decades. His directorial and production credits include 'Pyaar Jhukta Nahin', 'Teri Meherbaniyan', 'Swarg Jaisa Ghar', 'Lal Baadshah', 'Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam', and 'Raja Babu'. He recently released his latest project, 'Teesri Begum'. The throwback post signals that even as Bokadia looks ahead with new work, the formative collaborations of his early career remain close to his heart.
The rare image is a timely reminder of Sanjeev Kumar's unmatched craft — and of an era in Hindi filmmaking that continues to cast a long shadow over contemporary cinema.
Point of View
And the industry has never quite filled the space he left. That a single candid photograph from a 1972 set can generate renewed interest in 2025 speaks to the durability of his screen presence — and to how thin the bench of comparable character actors has grown since.
NationPress
13 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What photo did K.C. Bokadia share of Sanjeev Kumar?
K.C. Bokadia shared a rare, previously unseen photograph of himself with late actor Sanjeev Kumar, taken on the sets of their 1972 film 'Rivaaj'. The image shows the two in conversation during a break from shooting.
What is the film 'Rivaaj' and who was in it?
'Rivaaj' is a 1972 Hindi film featuring Sanjeev Kumar, Mala Sinha, Shatrughan Sinha, Farida Jalal, and Nazir Hussain. It is one of several films from that era that showcased Sanjeev Kumar's versatile acting talent.
When did Sanjeev Kumar pass away and how?
Sanjeev Kumar passed away on 6 November 1985 at the age of 47 after suffering a heart attack. Despite his relatively short life, he left behind one of the most celebrated filmographies in Hindi cinema.
What are Sanjeev Kumar's most famous films?
Sanjeev Kumar is best remembered for films such as 'Sholay', 'Aandhi', 'Koshish', 'Mausam', 'Angoor', 'Trishul', 'Anamika', 'Naya Din Nai Raat', and 'Pati Patni Aur Woh'. His real name was Harihar Jethalal Jariwala.
What is K.C. Bokadia's latest film?
K.C. Bokadia recently released 'Teesri Begum', his latest directorial project. He is known for a long career in Hindi commercial cinema, with films such as 'Pyaar Jhukta Nahin', 'Teri Meherbaniyan', and 'Hum Tumhare Hain Sanam' to his credit.
