Veteran actor Manoj Kumar, known for his patriotic roles and classic films, passed away at the age of 87, leaving behind a rich legacy and a grieving family. While his on-screen journey is well documented, many remain unaware of his personal life—especially about his son Kunal Goswami, who briefly ventured into acting but later reinvented himself as a successful businessman.
Let’s take a closer look at the lesser-known story of Manoj Kumar’s family, his son’s short-lived film career, and his remarkable transformation into a crorepati entrepreneur.
Manoj Kumar’s elder son, Kunal Goswami, tried to follow in his father’s footsteps by entering the Hindi film industry. Making his debut in the early 1980s, Kunal starred in several films, including the 1983 romantic drama ‘Kalakaar’ opposite the legendary Sridevi. Despite the film’s catchy songs, including the iconic “Neele Neele Ambar Par” sung by Kishore Kumar, the movie didn’t perform well at the box office.
In fact, most of Kunal’s films failed to leave a mark. Even though he acted in the epic historical drama ‘Kranti’ (1981) alongside his father, the consistent lack of success in lead roles ultimately forced him to step away from the limelight.
After calling it quits in the film industry, Kunal Goswami didn’t let failure define him. Instead, he turned toward the business world and started a catering company in Delhi. His sharp business acumen and dedication led the venture to great heights.
Today, Kunal is regarded as a crorepati businessman, successfully running his catering operations while keeping a low profile. His journey is a testament to the idea that success can be found beyond the silver screen, even after public setbacks.
Manoj Kumar was married to Shashi Goswami, a woman he fell in love with at first sight. In an old interview, the actor reminisced about their first meeting at a friend’s house, where he was instantly captivated by her charm. It took him nearly a year to confess his feelings.
Their romance blossomed in the mid-1950s—around the time when classics like ‘Udan Khatola’ featuring Dilip Kumar and Nimmi were in theaters. A movie date with friends eventually led to a lifelong companionship for the couple.
The couple had two sons—Kunal and Vishal Goswami—both of whom stayed largely away from the glitz and glamor of Bollywood.
While Kunal Goswami’s acting career never took off, his pivot to business has made him a success in his own right. His story stands in stark contrast to the many star kids who struggle to find their footing in cinema. Unlike some, Kunal didn’t rely on Bollywood lineage alone—he chose to write his own story, away from the camera flashbulbs.
Manoj Kumar’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. But his legacy lives on—not only in his iconic films but also in the strength and resilience of his family. His son Kunal’s journey from a failed actor to a thriving entrepreneur reminds us that every ending is a new beginning.
