Legendary Indian actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar breathed his last in the early hours of Friday at the age of 87. He passed away at Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital after a prolonged illness. The news was confirmed by his son, Kunal Goswami, who shared that his father died peacefully around 3:30 am.

The late actor's body has been brought to his residence in Juhu, where it will remain for public viewing. His cremation has been scheduled for Saturday at noon at Pawan Hans Crematorium. Kunal mentioned that the family is waiting for a few relatives to arrive from abroad before conducting the final rites. Manoj Kumar is survived by his wife, who is currently unwell, and their sons.

A Legacy Rooted in Patriotism

Widely remembered for his deep love for the nation, Manoj Kumar was often referred to as 'Bharat Kumar' due to his iconic patriotic films. His body of work includes acclaimed titles like Purab Aur Paschim, Kranti, and Roti, Kapda Aur Makaan.

Over the years, he earned immense respect for portraying themes of nationalism, social justice, and moral integrity on screen. Apart from acting, Manoj Kumar also made significant contributions as a director, screenwriter, editor, and lyricist.

Some of his notable directorial works include Upkar, Shor, and Jai Hind. His distinctive storytelling style left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.

Born as Harikrishnan Giri Goswami in 1937 in Abbottabad—then part of British India and now in Pakistan—he moved with his family to Delhi following the Partition. He entered the film industry in 1957 with Fashion, but it was Kanch Ki Gudiya that truly marked his arrival in Bollywood.

Tributes Pour In

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media, calling Manoj Kumar a cinematic icon whose films inspired generations. “He was remembered for his patriotic zeal… His works ignited a spirit of national pride,” the Prime Minister wrote, sharing two nostalgic photographs of the late actor.

Actor Akshay Kumar also paid homage, saying Manoj Kumar instilled in him a sense of patriotic responsibility. “There’s no emotion like love and pride for our country,” Akshay shared, calling the veteran “one of the biggest assets of our fraternity.”

Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit mourned the loss, describing Kumar as a giant of Indian cinema and a cherished presence in the film industry. “We will truly miss a soul like him,” he said, recalling Kumar's cheerful spirit even during his health struggles.

Honours and Recognition

Manoj Kumar received several accolades throughout his illustrious career, including seven Filmfare Awards and a National Film Award. The Government of India honoured him with the Padma Shri in 1992, and in 2015, he was awarded the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award—Indian cinema’s highest honour—for his lifelong contributions to the art.

Having shared the screen with many legends like Prem Nath, Prem Chopra, Kamini Kaushal, and Hema Malini, Manoj Kumar leaves behind a legacy that continues to shape Indian storytelling and patriotism on screen.