Veteran Bollywood actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar,
fondly known as 'Bharat Kumar', passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai.
The legendary star, who defined a generation of patriotic cinema, breathed his
last at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital at 4:03 AM on Friday,
according to ANI.
Cause of Death
Medical reports confirmed that Manoj Kumar died of cardiogenic
shock caused by acute myocardial infarction (a severe heart attack).
He had also been battling decompensated liver cirrhosis for several
months, which contributed to his declining health. He had been admitted to the
hospital on February 21, 2025.
Final Rites
His mortal remains will be kept at his Juhu residence
from Friday afternoon, allowing family, fans, and industry colleagues to pay
their final respects. The cremation is expected to take place on Saturday.
A Pioneer of Patriotic Films
Born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Amritsar,
Punjab, Manoj Kumar adopted his screen name as a tribute to Dilip Kumar’s
character in the film Shabnam. Over the years, he became a household
name for his powerful roles in films that stirred the spirit of nationalism.
His most iconic works include:
- Shaheed
(1965) – A tribute to Bhagat Singh
- Upkar
(1967) – Introduced the famous slogan "Jai Jawan Jai
Kisan"
- Purab
Aur Paschim (1970) – A commentary on Indian values vs Western
influence
- Kranti
(1981) – A historical epic celebrating India’s freedom struggle
His films weren’t just box-office successes — they inspired
generations with messages of unity, pride, and love for the nation.
Tributes Pour In
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, while confirming the news,
said:
“It is a great loss to the industry. Manoj ji, we will
really miss you. He was always full of life. A great soul like him, a great
maker like him, will never be there again in our industry.”
The entire Bollywood fraternity, political leaders, and fans
across India are mourning the loss of a true legend.
Awards & Recognition
- Padma
Shri – 1992
- Dadasaheb
Phalke Award – 2015 (India’s highest cinematic honour)
- National
Film Award and 7 Filmfare Awards across various categories
Manoj Kumar's contribution to Indian cinema wasn’t just in
entertainment but in instilling a sense of identity and patriotism. His legacy
will forever remain etched in the history of Indian films.
A Legacy That Lives On
In a time when cinema is constantly evolving, Manoj Kumar’s
body of work reminds us of the power of storytelling rooted in national pride.
He may have departed, but his voice, vision, and values continue to echo
through generations.
Rest in peace, Bharat Kumar. Jai Hind. 🇮🇳
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