Iconic Indian actor-filmmaker Manoj Kumar, known for his string of patriotic films like Upkar and Purab Aur Paschim, which earned him the title of ‘Bharat Kumar’, died in Mumbai at the age of 87.
He breathed his last at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, where he was admitted with heart-related complications.
Manoj Kumar received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015.
His body has been kept at his residence in Juhu.
According to reports, Kumar was suffering from decompensated liver cirrhosis.
Manoj Kumar is known for starring against leading ladies of the era like Saira Banu, Nanda, Waheeda Rehman, Asha Parekh and Hema Malini.
Manoj Kumar is survived by his wife, Shashi Goswami, and their two sons.
Born in Abbottabad, a town now located in Pakistan, Kumar’s birth name was Harikrishan Giri Goswami.
He made his Hindi-film debut with the little-noticed movie Fashion in 1957.
He played his first leading role in Kaanch Ki Gudiya (1961).
Manoj Kumar earned accolades for his performance in the mystery thriller Gumnaam (1965), inspired by an Agatha Christie whodunit “And Then There Were None”. It was one of the highest-grossing movies of the year.
He won hearts by portraying the role of freedom fighter Bhagat Singh in Shaheed.
Kumar made several popular patriotic Hindi movies titled Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Pachhim (1970), and Kranti (1981) besides playing lead roles in these films.
In 1972, he also acted and directed the movie Shor.
He was conferred with the Padma Shri title in 1992 and the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999.
He had joined the Bharatiya Janata Party ahead of the 2004 Lok Sabha polls.
Narendra Modi Mourns Loss
Indian PM Narendra Modi said he was deeply saddened by the demise of the actor.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, who was particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was also 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,” he posted on X.
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh wrote on X: “Shri Manoj Kumar ji was a versatile actor, who would always be remembered for making films full of patriotism. Popularly known as ‘Bharat Kumar’ his unforgettable performances in films like ‘Upkaar’, ‘Purab and Paschim’ have enriched our culture and have endeared him to people across generations. His cinematic legacy will live on through his works. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
Bollywood Stars Condole Demise
Actor Akshay Kumar, who is also known for working in multiple patriotic movies in his career, said: “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.”
Filmmaker Madhur Bhandakar said: “I am saddened by the passing of the legendary actor & filmmaker, Manoj Kumar Sir, I had the privilege of interacting with him at many occasions , and he was truly an icon of Indian cinema. His storytelling & song picturizations in his films inspired national pride and will resonate for generations. My deepest condolences to his family members & admirers.”
