Veteran Bollywood actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, known for his iconic patriotic films, passed away today at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. He was 87. The actor had been struggling with numerous health issues for a long time, and at around 3:30 am. On Friday, he succumbed to his complications, as confirmed by his son Kunal Goswami.
Manoj Kumar carved a niche for himself in Indian cinema for his deeply nationalistic roles, which earned him the title of ‘Bharat Kumar’. His most renowned films include Purab Aur Paschim, Kranti, and Roti, Kapada Aur Makan. For decades, his movies entertained the masses while simultaneously evoking feverish nationalistic sentiments, inspiring patriotism unlike before.
Kunal Goswami shared that the family has decided to keep his body at their Juhu residence for final respects. His cremation will be held on Saturday at noon at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Mumbai. “It’s the grace of God that he bid adieu to this world peacefully,” Kunal said, adding that the family is waiting for a few close relatives to return from abroad for the final rites. Manoj Kumar is survived by his wife, who is currently unwell, and his sons.
The cause of death has been reported as cardiogenic shock due to acute myocardial infarction—a severe heart attack. Medical reports also confirmed that the veteran had been suffering from decompensated liver cirrhosis in recent months, which worsened his overall health condition.
Tributes have poured in from across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to express his grief, stating, “Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was reflected in his films. Manoj Ji’s works ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.”
Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar paid homage, posting a heartfelt message with a throwback photo. “I grew up learning from him that there’s no emotion like love and pride for our country. And if we actors won’t take the lead in showing this emotion, who will? Such a fine person, and one of the biggest assets of our fraternity. RIP Manoj Sir. Om Shanti,” he wrote.
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit described Manoj Kumar’s passing as an irreplaceable loss to Indian cinema. “Sad to inform you all that legendary Dadasaheb Phalke award winner, doyen of the Indian film industry, Shri Manoj Kumar ji is no more. We all kept meeting him quite occasionally. He was always full of life. A great soul like him will never be there again in our industry,” he said.
Besides acting and directing, Manoj Kumar also made significant contributions as a screenwriter, lyricist, and editor. He was honored with the Padma Shri in 1992 and later received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015 for his invaluable contribution to Indian cinema.
His demise marks the end of a glorious era in Bollywood, but his legacy will continue to live on through his films and the patriotic spirit he instilled in countless hearts.
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