Veteran actor Jackie Shroff paid tribute to two iconic figures of Indian cinema, Ashok Kumar and Kishore Kumar, on Monday, marking Ashok Kumar’s 115th birth anniversary and Kishore Kumar’s 39th death anniversary. The actor took to social media to honour the legendary brothers through separate video montages celebrating their contributions to Indian entertainment.
Jackie Shroff Remembers Ashok Kumar on His Birth Anniversary
Remembering Ashok Kumar, popularly known as ‘Dada Moni’, Jackie shared a montage of black-and-white photographs showcasing the veteran actor in different roles throughout his celebrated career.
The tribute featured the song “Dheere Dheere Aa Re Badal” from the 1943 film Kismet. Alongside the montage, Jackie wrote, “Fondly remembering Ashok Kumar ji on his birth anniversary”.
Born Kumudlal Ganguly on October 13, 1911, Ashok Kumar would have turned 115 this year. He reportedly began his professional journey at Bombay Talkies as a laboratory assistant before making his acting debut in Jeevan Naiya in 1936.
Over the years, he became one of Hindi cinema’s most prominent actors, delivering memorable performances in films such as Achhut Kanya, Kismet, Mahal, Parineeta, Bandini, Howrah Bridge, Jewel Thief, Victoria No. 203 and Aashirwad.
In recognition of his contribution to Indian cinema, Ashok Kumar received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1988 and the Padma Bhushan in 1999.
Jackie Shroff Pays Homage to Kishore Kumar
Jackie also remembered Ashok Kumar’s younger brother, Kishore Kumar, on his death anniversary. The actor shared a black-and-white photograph of the legendary singer and actor as part of his tribute.
The post featured “Khwab Ho Tum Ya Koi Haqeeqat”, a popular song from the 1964 film Teen Devian. Composed by S. D. Burman and written by lyricist Majrooh Sultanpuri, the track remains one of the memorable songs associated with Kishore Kumar’s musical legacy.
Born Abhas Kumar Ganguly on August 4, 1929, Kishore Kumar was a versatile entertainer who excelled as a playback singer, actor, music composer, lyricist and filmmaker. His distinctive voice, expressive singing and playful style made him one of the most celebrated artists in Indian music.
Some of his best-known songs include “Roop Tera Mastana”, “Mere Sapno Ki Rani”, “Zindagi Ek Safar Hai Suhana” and “Khwab Ho Tum Ya Koi Haqeeqat”.
Apart from his success as a singer, Kishore Kumar also established himself as an actor, appearing in popular films such as Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi, Half Ticket, Padosan and Jhumroo.
Kishore Kumar’s Death on Ashok Kumar’s Birthday
Kishore Kumar passed away on October 13, 1987, the same day his elder brother Ashok Kumar celebrated his 76th birthday. He died in Mumbai at the age of 58 following a heart attack.
Kishore Kumar’s death reportedly had a profound impact on Ashok Kumar, who stopped celebrating his birthday after losing his younger brother.
Ashok Kumar died on December 10, 2001, at the age of 90 at his residence in Chembur, Mumbai. Both brothers continue to be remembered for their lasting contributions to Indian cinema and music.