At the age of 87, renowned Bollywood actor and director Manoj Kumar, who was most known for his iconic patriotic roles, passed away. Due to heart-related issues, he passed away early on Friday morning at Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. Decompensated liver cirrhosis was listed as a secondary cause on the hospital’s medical certificate.
Manoj Kumar, who is often referred to as “Bharat Kumar” for his powerful depictions of nationalistic themes in his films, made a significant contribution to Indian cinema. According to his son Kunal Goswami, the legendary actor died quietly after a protracted battle with health problems. Saturday am is the planned time for his cremation.
A Career Defined by Patriotism and Purpose
Manoj Kumar, who was born Harikrishan Goswami in 1937 in Abbottabad, British India (now in Pakistan), made his Bollywood debut in 1957 with the movie Fashion. His breakthrough roles were in the popular thriller Gumnaam (1965) and Kanch Ki Gudiya (1961). He received praise from critics for his portrayal of independence fighter Bhagat Singh in Shaheed that same year.
A number of patriotic films, including Upkaar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974), Kranti (1981), and Shor (1972), which he also directed, made Manoj Kumar a household figure. His reputation as a filmmaker with a strong connection to social consciousness and patriotism was solidified by these works.
At the 1975 Filmfare Awards, he took home the Best Director prize for his film Roti Kapda Aur Makaan.
National Recognition and Awards
Throughout his life, Manoj Kumar was bestowed with numerous distinguished honours:
- Padma Shri (1992)
- Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award (1999)
- Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2015) — India’s highest award in cinema
As evidence of his continued adherence to national ideals both on and off screen, he formally joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2004.
Tributes Pour In
On the social media site X (previously Twitter), Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent his sympathies and referred to Manoj Kumar as a “legendary actor and filmmaker.” He wrote, “Remembered for his patriotic fervour, he was a symbol of Indian cinema.” Generations to come would be inspired by Manoj Ji’s works, which sparked a sense of patriotism.
Kumar was hailed as “a versatile actor whose unforgettable performances enriched Indian culture” by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Millions of Indians continue to cherish Manoj Kumar’s contributions to Indian cinema and culture as the country laments the passing of a titan of the film industry.
Om Shanti.
