Mumbai: Legendary Bollywood actor and director Manoj Kumar, renowned for his patriotic films such as Purab Aur Paschim and Kranti, breathed his last at the age of 87 in Mumbai. He passed away in the early hours of Friday at 3:30 am at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital due to heart-related complications. The hospital’s medical report cited decompensated liver cirrhosis as a secondary cause of death.
His son, Kunal Goswami, told ANI, "By God's grace, he passed away peacefully." His last rites will be performed tomorrow morning… He was happy, though ailing for some time.”
Manoj Kumar had been battling health issues for several years.
Nation Mourns the Loss
He wrote, "A legend of Indian cinema, Manoj Ji was cherished for his patriotic spirit, which shone through his films." His work instilled national pride and will continue to inspire generations My deepest condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti."
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also paid tribute, stating, “Shri Manoj Kumar Ji, fondly remembered as ‘Bharat Kumar,’ was a versatile artist whose films embodied patriotism. His unforgettable performances in classics like Upkaar and Purab Aur Paschim have left an indelible mark on Indian culture. His legacy will live on through his cinematic contributions My sincere condolences to his family and loved ones. Om Shanti..”
Filmmaker Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri remarked, “Patriots and artists like him are immortal.”
The Legacy of ‘Bharat Kumar’
Born Harikrishnan Goswami in 1937 in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Manoj Kumar began his Bollywood journey with Fashion (1957). His breakthrough came with Kanch Ki Gudiya (1961), co-starring Sayeeda Khan.
The 1965 thriller Gumnaam was a box-office hit, earning ₹2.6 crore, while his portrayal of Bhagat Singh in Shaheed (1965) became iconic. Over the years, he became synonymous with patriotic cinema, delivering memorable performances in Upkaar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Kranti (1981), earning him the moniker ‘Bharat Kumar.’ He also directed and starred in Shor (1972).
His 1974 directorial Roti Kapda Aur Makaan won him the Filmfare Best Director Award. Recognized for his contributions, he was honored with the Padma Shri (1992), the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award (1999), and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2015).
In 2004, he joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of the general elections.
Manoj Kumar's passing signifies the end of an era in Indian cinema.His films, brimming with patriotism, will continue to inspire generations, ensuring his legacy lives on.
Om Shanti.
