After Manoj Kumar’s death, his co-star Moushumi Chatterjee spoke badly about Manoj Kumar!

.

.

.

play video:

Moushumi Chatterjee’s Shocking Allegations After Manoj Kumar’s Death Stir Bollywood

The Indian film industry was left reeling recently, not just from the loss of one of its most celebrated actors, Manoj Kumar, but also from the unexpected remarks made by veteran actress and his former co-star, Moushumi Chatterjee. On April 4, Manoj Kumar passed away, leaving behind a legacy of iconic performances and a reputation for patriotism and cinematic brilliance. But just days after his death, Moushumi Chatterjee made explosive claims that have caught the entire industry off guard.

In a candid and emotional interview, Moushumi Chatterjee accused Manoj Kumar of playing “dirty politics” during their collaboration, particularly during the filming of the 1974 blockbuster Roti Kapda Aur Makaan. According to her, Kumar had deliberately sidelined her during the production, despite her unwavering dedication to the film, even while she was five months pregnant.

Chatterjee recounted that she had performed all her scheduled scenes and songs, including the hit number “Mehangai Maar Gayi,” while in the early stages of pregnancy. However, when it came to shooting another major song, “Hai Hai Yeh Majboori,” which was originally intended to be picturized on her, Kumar allegedly replaced her with Zeenat Aman. This decision, according to Chatterjee, was not based on professional grounds but was a punitive response to her pregnancy, which had upset Manoj Kumar.

“Despite being pregnant, I gave my all to the film,” she explained. “I had rehearsed the choreography, done the preparations, and was ready to shoot, but the song was taken from me and handed to Zeenat Aman. I was devastated. Manoj Kumar was upset and vented that anger by excluding me from the song.”

While Chatterjee clarified that she doesn’t believe in badmouthing someone after they have passed away, she said it was important to speak her truth. “Just because someone is no longer alive, doesn’t mean I should only say good things if they’re not true,” she stated. “He was a legend, yes, but I was hurt, and that hurt stayed with me.”

These remarks have shocked many in the industry and among fans, especially as tributes continue to pour in for Kumar from colleagues and admirers. Actors like Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, and Salim Khan have all lauded Manoj Kumar’s generosity and influence. In fact, Kumar has long been credited with giving a leg up to several struggling stars in Bollywood, including offering critical early support to Amitabh Bachchan.

This contrast between his perceived mentorship and Chatterjee’s revelations has sparked intense debate. Was there another side to the actor known as ‘Bharat Kumar’? Or is this a case of a personal misunderstanding that resurfaced at a sensitive moment?

Industry insiders have been reluctant to take sides, though many acknowledge that egos, politics, and power struggles have always existed behind the glitz of Bollywood. As one veteran filmmaker remarked, “Every story in Bollywood has more than one version. What’s important is to listen to all sides.”

Moushumi Chatterjee’s career, which began with much promise, has had its share of ups and downs. Her pairing with Manoj Kumar was seen as an ideal match of talent and emotional depth, especially in socially-driven films. But now, her version of what happened behind the scenes raises questions about the challenges actresses faced — and still do — in navigating their careers alongside powerful male leads.

Public reactions have been mixed. While some have expressed support and empathy for Chatterjee, others believe such allegations should have been made while Kumar was alive to respond.

Still, others argue that the culture of silence surrounding behind-the-scenes mistreatment is exactly why voices like Chatterjee’s need to be heard, even posthumously. “Women in the industry were silenced for too long. If she’s speaking now, we should listen,” commented one social media user.

There has been no official response from Manoj Kumar’s family or from the production team of Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, but sources say they were surprised by the allegations and are choosing to maintain a dignified silence.

As the controversy continues to unfold, the film industry is once again faced with a familiar reckoning: reconciling the myth of its legends with the real, complex individuals they were.

Manoj Kumar, for his part, remains a towering figure in Indian cinema. Known for his deep patriotism and evocative storytelling, he helped shape the Bollywood of the 1960s and 70s. But the sudden emergence of such allegations after his death is a reminder that even icons are not without controversy.

Whether Chatterjee’s claims are ultimately seen as a necessary reckoning or an untimely airing of grievances, one thing is certain: the story has stirred deep conversations about power, gender, and truth in the Indian film industry.

What do you think about Moushumi Chatterjee’s revelation? Was it a long-suppressed truth finally voiced, or an unfortunate moment of bitterness? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for the latest stories from Bollywood and beyond.