The Indian film industry and the nation at large are in mourning as veteran actor Manoj Kumar, fondly known as “Bharat Kumar,” passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai. The veteran actor breathed his last at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, where he was reportedly admitted due to heart-related complications. According to medical reports, the secondary cause of his death was “decompensated liver cirrhosis.”
A Legendary Career in Indian Cinema
Manoj Kumar, famously known as “Bharat Kumar” for his deep-rooted patriotic roles, left an indelible mark on Indian cinema with films like Shaheed, Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Kranti. His dedication to portraying nationalistic themes earned him a special place in Bollywood history.
Born as Harikrishan Giri Goswami in present-day Pakistan, Manoj Kumar and his family migrated to India during the Partition. His love for cinema led him to Mumbai, where he made his acting debut in Fashion (1957). However, it was Shaheed (1965), based on the life of freedom fighter Bhagat Singh, that catapulted him to fame. He followed it up with Upkar (1967), a film inspired by Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri’s call for “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan.” This film not only became a box-office hit but also established his image as Bollywood’s most patriotic hero.
Awards and Honors
Manoj Kumar was honoured with the Padma Shri in 1992 by the Government of India for his outstanding work in the film industry. His crowning achievement came in 2015 when he was bestowed with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest honour in cinema.
Besides these, his films received multiple Filmfare Awards, and he was celebrated for his direction as well, with movies like Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974) and Kranti (1981) further cementing his reputation as a visionary filmmaker.
Bollywood Mourns the Loss of a Legend
As the news of his passing broke, the film industry and fans worldwide paid their respects. Celebrities, politicians, and cinema lovers took to social media to express their grief.
Superstar Amitabh Bachchan, who worked alongside Manoj Kumar in Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, tweeted, “A true legend of Indian cinema has left us. His films ignited patriotism in every Indian heart. You will always be remembered, Manoj Ji.”
Actor Akshay Kumar also shared his condolences, writing, “ I grew up learning from him that no emotion is as profound as love and pride for our country. His legacy will live on through his incredible body of work. Om Shanti.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his feelings, calling him “a cinematic veteran whose movies reflected the patriotic spirit of India.”
Final Rites and Last Respects
The veteran actor’s funeral is set to take place at Mumbai’s Pawan Hans Crematorium, where industry stalwarts and family members will gather to bid their final goodbye.
Manoj Kumar’s passing marks the end of an era in Bollywood. His films, his legacy, and his unwavering love for the country will continue to inspire generations to come.
