Veteran Actor Manoj Kumar Passes Away at 87, Leaves Behind a Patriotic Legacy in Indian Cinema
Legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, widely hailed as the cinematic embodiment of patriotism in Indian cinema, passed away at the age of 87. He breathed his last at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, where he had been admitted due to heart-related health complications. While cardiac issues were initially reported as the primary concern, the hospital’s official medical certificate also listed decompensated liver cirrhosis as a secondary cause of death.
Born as Harikrishan Giri Goswami in what is today Pakistan, Manoj Kumar’s cinematic journey was as extraordinary as his one. Fondly remembered by generations of Indians as ‘Bharat Kumar, ’ he carved a unique niche for himself in Bollywood with films that celebrated national pride, sacrifice, and service to the motherland. His name became synonymous with patriotic storytelling through iconic films such as “Shaheed” (1965), “Upkar” (1967)—inspired by Lal Bahadur Shastri’s slogan Jai Jawan Jai Kisan—and “Purab Aur Paschim” (1970), which explored India’s cultural identity during a time of shifting global values.
In an earlier interview with Rediff.com, Kumar shared that he never intended to become a director. However, during the making of Shaheed, circumstances forced him to step behind the camera unofficially. That experience laid the foundation for his dual role as actor-director, particularly in films with a nationalist tone.
Apart from his most famous patriotic works, Manoj Kumar also showcased his versatility through a range of popular films including “Hariyali Aur Raasta,” “Woh Kaun Thi,” “Himalaya Ki God Mein,” “Do Badan,” “Patthar Ke Sanam,” “Neel Kamal,” and the historical epic “Kranti”. His thoughtful portrayals and his deep-rooted respect for Indian values made him one of the most revered figures in Hindi cinema. Throughout his career, Manoj Kumar received numerous accolades for his contribution to Indian film. In 1992, he was awarded the Padma Shri, one of the country’s highest civilian honors. More than two decades later, in 2015, he was bestowed with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest award in cinema, recognizing his lifetime contribution to the art form.
As news of his passing spread, tributes began pouring in from across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a heartfelt post shared on social media along with archival images of the actor, wrote:
“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.”
Actor Akshay Kumar, often referred to as Manoj Kumar’s “natural successor,” also paid tribute to the late icon. He wrote,
“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.”
In one of his last known interviews with Lehren TV, Manoj Kumar reflected on being called ‘Bharat Kumar’. He said,
“To be given the crown of Bharat by my countrymen is not just an honor, but a tremendous responsibility in both my professional and personal life. It is a huge debt I carry. How well or poorly I’ve carried it, only my fellow citizens can judge. I am but an ordinary man.”
His humility, even in the face of towering acclaim, defined his character as much as his on-screen persona. As someone who shaped the cinematic representation of India’s soul, Manoj Kumar’s departure is more than the end of an era—it is the passing of a torch.
The Indian film industry, and indeed the entire nation, mourns the loss of a man whose films didn’t just entertain but inspired, uplifted, and stirred millions of hearts to love and serve their nation with pride.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Om Shanti.
