Roti Kapada Aur Makaan: Making of a film masterpiece
The all-time classic, written, produced, directed, and headlined by movie star Manoj Kumar, transcended conventional storytelling, delivering powerful social commentary.
Stills from Roti Kapada Aur Makaan
By Asjad NazirOct 12, 2024
WHEN Roti Kapada Aur Makaan was released in cinemas on October 18, 1974, it strongly resonated with audiences and became the highest-grossing film of the year.
This all-time classic, written, produced, directed, and headlined by movie star Manoj Kumar, transcended conventional storytelling, delivering powerful social commentary on the struggles of the common man. Powered by a strong cast, this social drama about essential human needs explored themes of dignity, survival, economic disparity, and life in a turbulent era.
Eastern Eye decided to celebrate the drama’s golden anniversary by sharing fascinating facts connected to it:
Manoj Kumar visited several unemployment offices and interacted with job seekers to authentically portray his role. He also drew on his early job-hunting struggles for inspiration, with scenes where his character searches for a job reflecting these real-life observations.
Rajesh Khanna was initially considered for the role of Mohan Babu but had to decline due to other commitments. Navin Nischol, approached next, opted out, not wanting to act in a multistarrer. Although Rajendra Kumar was offered the role, he requested improvements that Manoj Kumar declined to make. Shashi Kapoor was ultimately cast, earning great acclaim.
Sharmila Tagore was first offered the role of Sheetal, but she preferred the character played by Moushumi Chatterjee. Kumar, however, ultimately cast Zeenat Aman as Sheetal.
Zeenat Aman initially hesitated to play the morally ambiguous role of a woman leaving her struggling partner for a wealthier man but was eventually persuaded, solidifying her status as a leading lady willing to break norms.
Amitabh Bachchan was relatively unknown when he was cast in the film but had become a star by its release. His presence helped it become a blockbuster. Despite a suddenly packed schedule, Bachchan made special efforts to accommodate the film, shooting some of his most intense scenes between other projects.
Manoj Kumar had offered Smita Patil a role when she was still an unknown, which she declined. Patil would later become one of India’s greatest film actresses.
It was widely reported that Mehmood had been promised a role that did not materialise, leading to public expressions of displeasure by the legendary actor.
Legendary playback singer Mukesh, despite being unwell, completed the popular song Main Na Bhoolunga with Lata Mangeshkar.
Bachchan sustained an injury during an action sequence but continued shooting to avoid disrupting the schedule.
Chatterjee, pregnant during filming, could not shoot for the song Haye Haye Yeh Majboori. The song was shot with Zeenat Aman, though it didn’t suit her character’s story arc. Chatterjee later revealed that Kumar never fully forgave her for her inability to perform in that song.
During the filming of a rape scene, a significant amount of cooking flour fell on Chatterjee. A lot of it went into her mouth, leading to her vomiting the entire night. It also took hours to remove the flour from her hair.
In keeping with his patriotic Bharat persona, Manoj Kumar included no physical romantic scenes with Zeenat Aman in their roles.
This was the first film for which actor Ajay Devgn’s father, legendary stunt director Veeru Devgan, took full charge of the action scenes.
The project was Manoj Kumar’s most ambitious to date, leading him to mortgage his house to fund the film, which became that year’s biggest Bollywood success.
The film employed a lot of symbolism to reflect the socio-political climate of India at the time. Lead characters Bharat (Manoj Kumar) and Vijay (Amitabh Bachchan) symbolised India and victory, respectively, representing hope for a better future amidst struggles.
Indian cultural references were deliberately included in the dialogues to enhance resonance with the audience.
Kumar had filmed an alternate ending in which his character, Bharat, succumbs to life’s pressures and dies. He eventually chose a positive ending to convey a message of resilience and hope.
The initial cut of Roti Kapada Aur Makaan was much longer than the final 160-minute version, with Kumar editing out scenes to keep the narrative focused and concise.
Unused sub-plots that were excluded from the final edit involved a more in-depth exploration of the relationship between Bharat and his younger brother Vijay.
Kumar organised screenings for workers and lower-income groups to gauge the film’s impact on its target audience.
The film’s distributors and many Bollywood insiders initially disliked the title Roti Kapada Aur Makaan, but Kumar maintained it to encapsulate the film’s social message.
Following the film’s success, Kumar organised special screenings for the impoverished in various rural areas and held charity screenings, with proceeds donated to local initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty. This ultimately reflected the film’s core message.
Some sets used in Roti Kapada Aur Makaan were repurposed for other films of the time.
The song Hai Hai Yeh Majboori was later sampled by hip-hop artist Bubba Sparxxx in the song Ugly and remixed by Bally Sagoo on his album Bollywood Flashback 2.
Roti Kapada Aur Makaan was later remade in Telugu as Jeevana Poratam (1986) and continues to inspire Bollywood movies with its themes.
The timeless classic remains relevant today, highlighting the struggles of the poor and working class to secure basic necessities such as food, clothing, and shelter, as the title suggests. Many filmmakers have been inspired by its themes to create movies about the common man’s struggles, using it as a reference point for addressing similar social issues in subsequent decades.
Two leading AI tools shaping digital art, Seedream 4.0 and Google’s Gemini Nano Banana
Seedream 4.0 generates high-resolution imaginative visuals in multiple styles
Nano Banana transforms selfies into retro Bollywood-inspired portraits
Viral on Instagram, TikTok, and X, with global audiences engaging
Experts highlight data privacy, authenticity, and ethical concerns
AI-powered creativity is sweeping social media, with Seedream 4.0 and Nano Banana AI capturing the imagination of users worldwide. Seedream 4.0 is designed for digital artists and hobbyists who want to create detailed, high-quality visuals in a wide range of styles, from realistic landscapes to abstract scenes. Nano Banana, on the other hand, allows users to turn selfies into 1990s Bollywood-inspired portraits, often featuring traditional South Asian attire and nostalgic retro backdrops.
A global viral phenomenon
Both tools have seen rapid adoption in 2025. Seedream 4.0 attracts those seeking versatile, high-resolution creative outputs. Nano Banana has gone viral for its playful, culturally resonant edits. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X are flooded with creations from influencers, celebrities, and everyday users, showing the broad appeal of AI-driven art.
Why creativity matters
Seedream 4.0 highlights the technical potential of AI, giving users precise control over the artistic process. Nano Banana blends nostalgia with identity play, offering a visually striking way to connect with cultural heritage. Together, the platforms illustrate how AI can be both a tool for experimentation and a medium for cultural expression.
Data privacy and safety concerns
Experts warn that uploading personal images or creative files to AI platforms carries privacy risks. Questions around image storage, consent, and potential misuse are increasingly important for younger audiences and online communities. Governments and digital safety advocates in India, the UK, and beyond have emphasised caution.
Beyond the trends
Seedream 4.0 and Nano Banana each cater to different creative goals but highlight the expanding ecosystem of AI art. Users are exploring everything from high-resolution imaginative scenes to retro Bollywood portraits, showing that AI-driven experimentation is not only here to stay but also shaping global digital culture.
As these trends grow, they are influencing both digital aesthetics and social media engagement while fostering creative expression across cultures in 2025.
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James Bourne confirms his exit from the McFly and Busted joint tour hours before opening night
James Bourne announces exit from the joint tour just hours before its launch
The Busted star says he is not well enough to perform
McFly and Busted will continue the tour as planned without him
Fellow bandmates and fans send messages of support and encouragement
In an unexpected turn, James Bourne has pulled out of the much-anticipated McFly tour, just hours before the opening show in Birmingham. The Busted star shared that ongoing health issues have forced him to withdraw from the joint run, which was due to see both bands performing their greatest hits on the same stage. His decision comes as a major blow to fans who had been awaiting this collaboration.
James Bourne confirms his exit from the McFly and Busted joint tour hours before opening night Getty Images/Instagram/busted
Why has James Bourne left the McFly tour?
Bourne posted a heartfelt message on social media, revealing that his health had deteriorated in the lead-up to the tour. He said: “The VS tour kicks off tomorrow night in Birmingham and as excited as I’ve been all year for this tour to begin, I’m really sorry to say that over the last eight days it has become clear that I am not in good enough health to play these shows.”
He added that he is still undergoing tests to understand his condition fully, and after discussions with his bandmates and management, they decided it was best he stepped away to focus on recovery. Bourne expressed hope that he might return further down the line, saying: “I really hope I can be in a position to come back further down the line. It’s still going to be an amazing show and I will miss being there.”
The announcement drew quick responses from Bourne’s colleagues in both bands. Harry Judd of McFly said: “Won’t be the same without you dude. Hope you’re back on tour asap.” Fellow McFly member Danny Jones reshared Bourne’s statement with the caption, “Get well soon mate,” while Matt Willis from Busted commented: “Love you brother…”
Despite Bourne’s absence, the rest of the line-up including McFly’s Harry Judd, Dougie Poynter, Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones, alongside Busted’s Matt Willis and Charlie Simpson, will carry on with the planned performances. The tour aims to mix both bands’ hits and culminate in an onstage “battle” of songs.
Charlie Simpson, Matt Willis and James Bourne of Busted attend a photocall at Royal Albert Hall Getty Images
Where will the McFly and Busted tour travel next?
The tour is set to launch in Birmingham before moving on to some of the UK’s biggest arenas, including The O2 Arena in London, and stops in Cardiff, Sheffield, Leeds, Aberdeen, Glasgow, Liverpool, Newcastle, Nottingham, Manchester, Dublin and Belfast. The final show is scheduled to take place at London’s O2 Arena on 1 November.
This isn’t the first time the two pop-rock bands have shared the stage. In 2014, they joined forces as McBusted for a hugely successful tour following guest appearances from Bourne and Willis during McFly’s Royal Albert Hall concerts. Bourne later reunited with Busted in 2015 after a decade-long hiatus, making his sudden absence from this new tour especially poignant for fans.
Danny Jones, Dougie Poynter, Matt Willis of Busted, James Bourne, Tom Fletcher and Harry Judd attend a press conference Getty Images
How have fans reacted to James Bourne’s departure?
Messages of support have poured in across social media since Bourne’s announcement. Many expressed sadness at his absence but urged him to prioritise his wellbeing. Comments included: “Get well soon brother,” and “Wishing you a speedy recovery James.”
While disappointed, most fans have echoed the sentiment that his health must come first. With McFly and Busted pressing ahead, ticket holders can still expect a packed night of nostalgic hits, even as they hope to see Bourne back on stage in future.
The live-action Street Fighter film will release in October 2026 via Paramount Pictures
Indian star Vidyut Jammwal plays Dhalsim in the multicultural ensemble cast
The film is directed by Kitao Sakurai and shot for IMAX
Set in 1993, the story follows Ryu and Ken returning for a high-stakes World Warrior Tournament
The upcoming Street Fighter movie is gearing up for a worldwide release in October 2026 under Paramount Pictures, and the buzz around Vidyut Jammwal in Street Fighter is already hyping fans. Bringing together a diverse international line-up, this live-action adaptation aims to reintroduce the beloved gaming saga to a new generation while tapping into the nostalgia of its 1990s arcade roots.
Street Fighter is now in production Instagram/streetfightermovie
What is Vidyut Jammwal’s role in Street Fighter?
Indian action star Vidyut Jammwal joins the cast as the mystical fighter Dhalsim, marking his first major Hollywood studio film. Known for his intense martial arts skills and dynamic screen presence, Jammwal’s casting adds South Asian representation to the franchise.
Dhalsim is famed among gamers for his yoga-inspired combat style, teleportation abilities and fiery attacks, making him a challenging yet memorable character. Seeing Jammwal bring these distinctive moves to life on the big screen could offer audiences a fresh take on the classic fighter.
Vidyut Jammwal prepares to unleash Dhalsim’s iconic fire attacks in the new Street Fighter movie Getty Images
When will the Street Fighter movie release?
The film is scheduled to hit cinemas in October 2026 and will be distributed globally through Paramount Pictures under a new partnership with Legendary Entertainment. The production is currently underway and is being filmed for the IMAX format to amplify its large-scale, action-heavy sequences.
This release is also the first title to launch under Legendary’s new global distribution deal, signalling high expectations from both studios. The date positions it for a lucrative autumn slot, often seen as a prime window for blockbuster releases.
Who else stars alongside Vidyut Jammwal in Street Fighter?
The ensemble features a multicultural mix of stars. Andrew Koji portrays Ryu, while Noah Centineo plays Ken Masters. Callina Liang takes on Chun-Li, with Joe Anoa’i (Roman Reigns) as Akuma, David Dastmalchian as M. Bison and Cody Rhodes as Guile. They are joined by Andrew Schulz, Eric André, Curtis Jackson (50 Cent) and Jason Momoa among others.
Set in 1993, the story reunites estranged fighters Ryu and Ken when Chun-Li recruits them for the next World Warrior Tournament, a brutal, globe-spanning contest. However, beneath the spectacle lurks a deadly conspiracy that forces them to confront both each other and their troubled pasts.
Directed by Kitao Sakurai, the film promises to capture the spirit of the original game while building an emotionally driven narrative for today’s viewers. With Hadoukens, roundhouses and dramatic face-offs, it aims to bring the nostalgic fan service with cinematic spectacle.
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Charli XCX stuns in sheer Danielle Frankel dress at second wedding to George Daniel in Sicily
Charli XCX and George Daniel celebrated their second wedding in Scopello, Sicily.
The pop star wore a sheer custom Danielle Frankel gown with pearls and chiffon layers.
Guests included Troye Sivan, Amelia Dimoldenberg and The 1975’s Matty Healy.
The couple first tied the knot in Hackney, London, in July.
Charli XCX embraced modern bridal fashion once again as she married George Daniel for the second time, this time in Sicily. The Brat singer chose a sheer Danielle Frankel gown for the romantic seaside ceremony, making her ‘Charli XCX wedding dress’ one of the most talked-about celebrity bridal looks of the year. The wedding followed their first civil ceremony in London earlier this summer.
Charli XCX stuns in sheer Danielle Frankel dress at second wedding to George Daniel in Sicily Instagram/billboarditalia
What did Charli XCX wear for her Sicilian wedding?
The singer’s gown was a custom ivory silk chiffon slip by New York designer Danielle Frankel. Bias-cut with delicate spaghetti straps, it featured a contouring internal bustier visible beneath a transparent overlay. Ribbons of chiffon draped across the bodice and back, while the elongated train was embroidered with organza petals and baroque pearls. She paired the look with white silk stiletto Kennedy pumps from the same label and minimal jewellery, letting the gown’s ethereal detail shine.
The look was completed with a simple bouquet of eucalyptus, baby blue and gypsophila. George Daniel matched the understated elegance in a light suit without a tie, paired with black Oxford shoes.
Who attended Charli XCX and George Daniel’s second wedding?
The guest list was starry and happening. Among those spotted were Troye Sivan, presenter Amelia Dimoldenberg, influencer Devon Lee Carlson, and avant-pop artist Shygirl. The 1975’s frontman Matty Healy, a close friend of Daniel, also attended alongside fiancée Gabbriette Bechtel.
The intimate ceremony took place in the small coastal village of Scopello, particularly known for its dramatic cliffs and historic buildings, providing a perfect backdrop to the celebration.
How does this dress compare to her first wedding look?
In July, Charli married Daniel at Hackney Town Hall in London wearing Vivienne Westwood’s Nova Cora mini dress. That outfit, with its sweetheart neckline and corseted bodice, channelled classic bridal chic. She accessorised it with a short veil and Jimmy Choo heels for a simple yet classy nod to tradition.
The Sicilian gown, by contrast, leaned fully into contemporary bridal design, focussing on transparency, layering and statement embellishment. Fashion insiders called it another defining moment for Danielle Frankel, who has quickly become a favourite for high-profile brides.
Charli XCX and George Daniel\u2019s wedding photos spark a new alt-pop moodboard Instagram/charli_xcx
Why is the Charli XCX wedding dress making headlines?
The unique mix of celebrity influence, designer prestige and bold styling has made Charli XCX’s dress a key talking point. Bridal fashion searches around “Charli XCX wedding dress” and “Danielle Frankel sheer gown” surged following the ceremony. Frankel, who founded her label in 2017 and was the first bridal designer included in the CFDA Fashion Fund, has been celebrated for merging structure with fluidity.
Charli XCX carried a bouquet of eucalyptus and gypsophila while George Daniel opted for a light suitInstagram/glowupmag
Her designs have been worn by stars such as Julia Garner and Lucy Williams, and Charli’s choice further heightens her status as a tastemaker and popular choice among modern brides.
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Emmy Awards 2025 winners list as Stephen Graham, Seth Rogen and Owen Cooper shine
Netflix’s Adolescence dominates with six wins including best limited series
Owen Cooper makes history as youngest male Emmy winner at 15
Seth Rogen’s The Studio sets comedy record with 13 trophies
Stephen Colbert gets standing ovation as cancelled Late Show wins talk series
Netflix drama Adolescence and Apple TV+ satire The Studio led the 2025 Emmy Awards winners list, with British star Stephen Graham, Seth Rogen and teenage newcomer Owen Cooper among the biggest names of the night. The ceremony at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theatre also saw The Pitt and Severance secure major prizes, while Stephen Colbert returned to thunderous applause despite his late-night show’s cancellation.
Emmy Awards 2025 winners list as Stephen Graham, Seth Rogen and Owen Cooper shine Getty Images
Who were the biggest winners at the Emmy Awards 2025?
Adolescence, Netflix’s breakout drama, claimed six trophies including best limited series, directing and writing. Stephen Graham took home two awards, best actor in a limited series and writing honours, securing his place as one of Britain’s most respected talents. His co-star Erin Doherty won best supporting actress, while 15-year-old Owen Cooper made history as the youngest male acting winner for his supporting role.
Seth Rogen’s The Studio dominated comedy, becoming the most awarded in Emmy history with 13 trophies. Rogen himself won best comedy actor, plus directing and writing, a rare hat-trick for one night.
Owen Cooper was the night’s breakout, calling it “just so surreal” in his emotional speech after winning at just 15. Noah Wyle earned his first Emmy after decades in television, winning best actor in a drama for The Pitt. His co-star Katherine LaNasa delivered another surprise by clinching supporting actress in drama.
In Severance, Britt Lower’s best drama actress win and Tramell Tillman’s supporting actor triumph became historic firsts for both, with Tillman becoming the first Black man to win in his category.
Jean Smart extended her dominance in comedy, winning best actress for Hacks for the fourth time, while her co-star Hannah Einbinder celebrated her first Emmy as supporting actress.
The cancellation of The Late Show earlier this year did not stop Stephen Colbert from having one of the night’s most powerful moments. His show won best talk series, receiving a standing ovation as the audience chanted his name. Colbert’s wry stage joke: “Is anyone hiring?” perfectly captured the tone of his farewell.