Veteran Bollywood actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, widely celebrated for his patriotic films, passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai. He died due to age-related health issues at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, as confirmed in an official statement on Friday.
His son, Kunal Goswami, revealed to ANI that Kumar had been battling long-term health complications.
Born Harikrishan Goswami in 1937 in Punjab, Manoj Kumar began his acting career in 1957 and later became a pioneering director. In 1965, he turned to producing films centered on patriotism, following a suggestion from then-Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri. The result was Upkar, a massive hit that marked the beginning of a remarkable era in Indian cinema.
Known for weaving national pride and social issues into his stories, Kumar created timeless classics like Shaheed, Upkar, Purab Aur Pachchim, Roti Kapada Aur Makaan, and Kranti. His 1981 film Kranti, based on India’s freedom struggle, became the most successful patriotic film of its time, achieving All-Time Blockbuster status along with Upkar and Roti Kapada Aur Makaan.
Manoj Kumar’s contribution to cinema earned him the affectionate title ‘Bharat Kumar’—a tribute to his deep-rooted portrayal of Indian values and love for the nation.
Tributes poured in across the country from fans, celebrities, and political leaders. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him an “icon of Indian cinema” and wrote on X: “Manoj Ji’s works ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations.”
Actor Akshay Kumar said Manoj Kumar’s films instilled in him a deep sense of patriotism, while Ajay Devgn praised him for crafting moments that became part of Indian cinema’s golden legacy.
Kumar was honored with several prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award—India’s highest recognition in cinema.
His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy of national pride and cinematic excellence will live on for generations.
