veteran-actor-director-manoj-kumar-passes-away-at-87

Renowned actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, popularly known as 'Bharat Kumar', passed away at the age of 87 on Friday following a prolonged illness. The veteran artist celebrated for his deeply patriotic films, breathed his last at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai.

 

Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit confirmed the news, paying tribute to the legendary figure in Indian cinema.

 

"The legendary Dadasaheb Phalke award winner, our inspiration and the 'lion' of the Indian film industry, Manoj Kumar Ji is no more. It is a great loss to the industry, and the entire film fraternity will miss him," he said.

 

Manoj Kumar, whose real name was Harikrishan Goswami, was born on 24 July 1937 in Amritsar, Punjab. He carved an indelible niche in Hindi cinema through his evocative portrayals of patriotism and national pride. His filmography boasts some of the most iconic works in Indian cinema, including Shaheed (1965), Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974), each of which resonated with the nationalistic fervour of their times.

 

है प्रीत जहाँ की रीत सदा
मैं गीत वहाँ के गाता हूँ
भारत का रहने वाला हूँ
भारत की बात सुनाता हूँ…

Veteran actor #ManojKumar, known for his patriotic films and nickname '#BharatKumar ', passes away at the age of 87 at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital.#OmShanti 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/JGSYerQePN

— Aman Kumar Saw (@_AKView) April 4, 2025

 

Kumar’s contributions extended beyond acting, as he also directed several critically acclaimed films, focusing on themes of social justice, self-reliance, and Indian heritage. His unique cinematic style, often characterised by poignant dialogues and evocative storytelling, left an enduring impact on the industry.

 

His immense contribution to Indian cinema earned him multiple prestigious accolades, including a National Film Award and seven Filmfare Awards in various categories. In recognition of his artistic excellence, the Government of India conferred upon him the Padma Shri in 1992. His legacy was further cemented when he was bestowed with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015, the highest honour in Indian cinema.

 

Manoj Kumar’s films continue to inspire generations, reflecting the ethos of an era when cinema was a powerful medium of social and political expression. His passing marks the end of an era in Hindi cinema, leaving behind a legacy that will be cherished for years to come.