I was expecting more from a movie that was such a blockbuster and winner of several filmfare awards. Notwithstanding the amazing suspension of disbelief requirement, contrived song sequences and coincidences that were considered staple of Indian films of that time, the plot themes are so mixed up on purpose to get full 'masala' that you have a potpourri of a love triangle, family drama of a joint family, patriotism, secularism, and a social and political commentary - all of which are half baked and poorly done. This film was made in 1974 when youth unemployment and poverty were big issues. Indira Gandhi had won the previous general elections in 1971 on a 'Garibi Hatao' or 'Banish Poverty' manifesto, and then failed to deliver on these fronts because of her continued socialist/crypto-communist agenda. Yet, and most disappointingly and dishonestly, the film blames all evils on dhoti clad lalas and banias, while absolving the political leadership by explicitly relaying Indira Gandhi's 15th Aug broadcast, showing Vote Congress graffiti and singing paeans to socialism. Actually I have lost a lot of respect for the cinema going public of India of those times and for Manoj Kumar as well after watching this silly film. Even my favorite singer Mukesh sounded off-key in all songs.

Of course, In Tamil nadu in 1974 very few schools taught Hindi. Fortunately I studied in the ISC stream, and so could understand the movie to a large extent. This movie, though released in 1974, we could see it only in 1975 summer,as we were in rural tamil nadu.1974 was very troublesome for youngsters of the country.There was no clear direction for us. TV was unknown then.at least in Tamil Nadu.We had very few role models. Traditional heroes of tamil films for not talking of honesty and trustworthiness. There was this Railways strike In the news we were constantly bombarded with cases streaking " running without dress"; including Indian cities. This movie helped us to have role models. There were several of them. Of course sardarji was one. The jawan who dies suppressing his cough. zeenath having the gun wound yet expressing love. Moushmi chatterji fighting injustice in the end. people views on the same scene differ. Amitabh driving with a single hand was sorry...is thrilling even to think of it. Amitabh as a college student getting slap for trying to join with wrong forces in the beginning of the movie, all very vivid in the memory,for I had to see the movie in theaters. I enjoyed every bit. I saw two times. I don't mind if the movie was too cinematic. We need such stories to stimulate our younger generation. Now I am a community based paediatrician with 25 years experience. I will certainly recommend to my children

If compared with other Indian commercial films, Roti Kapada Aur Makaan does not have much flow.I'm not sure about the status and the financial conditions of the Indian singers at the present time. But this film indicates that, during the 70's, even the best singers would get nowhere with their talents. In this film, Manuj Kumar is a singer with a legendry voice (Mukesh), yet he has neither fame nor money.If talented singers did make a good living out their arts in India during the 70's, then this is perhaps the film's big flaw.But overall, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan is probably one of Bollywood's few films that actually makes sense.The direction, acting and story line are superb. The songs are related to the story, and are always inspiring to listen to.Most Bollywood's films are hardly watch able, but it will be a pleasure to watch this one more than twice.

This film has the lot: romance, action and hit songs. Manoj Kumar undoubtedly holds the lead role, but as far as show-stealing goes, Premnath's 'Sardar Harnam Singh' has to down as one of the greatest character portrayals, ever.Not only did he recite some of Sikhism's holiest 'prayers' fluently but was also allowed to swear (rather frequently) in Punjabi. Which, both added that extra class to his performance.His role was so widely acclaimed amongst Punjabis, that whenever Premnath was to visit Punjab, any services or goods he may require were given free of charge!