About this stamp
(Kumud lal Ganguly)
13 October 1911 – 10 December 2001
Birth Place: Bhagalpur, Bihar, India
Early Life and Identity
Ashok Kumar, born Kumudlal Ganguly, came to be affectionately known as “Dadamoni” in the Indian film industry. His career began in the pre-independence era, when actors were required not only to perform but also to sing their own songs—an art he mastered with ease.
Illustrious Film Career
Ashok Kumar emerged as one of the earliest superstars of Indian cinema, leaving an indelible mark across several decades.
His notable films from the early era include:
- Achhut Kanya (1936)
- Izzat (1937)
- Savitri (1937)
- Nirmala (1938)
- Kangan (1939)
- Bandhan (1940)
- Jhoola (1941)
In later decades, he continued to deliver memorable performances in acclaimed films such as:
- Parineeta (1953)
- Ek Hi Rasta (1956)
- Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi (1958)
- Howrah Bridge (1958)
- Bandini (1963)
- Mamta (1966)
- Jewel Thief (1967)
- Aashirwad (1968)
- Victoria No. 203 (1972)
- Khubsoorat (1980)
- Shaukeen (1981)
He effortlessly adapted to changing cinematic styles, evolving from a romantic hero to a powerhouse character actor.
Honours and Recognition
Ashok Kumar’s immense contribution to Indian cinema earned him several prestigious awards, including:
- Filmfare Awards
- Padma Shri (1962)
- Dada Saheb Phalke Award (1989)
Commemorative Postage Stamp
A commemorative postage stamp was issued honoring “Dadamoni” Ashok Kumar, the iconic Hindi film actor and elder brother of legendary singer-actor Kishore Kumar, as part of the series ‘100 Years of Indian Cinema’.
