Mumbai: Legendary Bollywood actor and director Manoj Kumar, known for his iconic portrayal of patriotism on the silver screen, passed away in Mumbai at the age of 87. The veteran actor died due to age-related health complications.
Kumar’s son, Kunal Goswami, confirmed that the actor had been battling health issues for an extended period.
Born Harikrishan Goswami in 1937 in the northern state of Punjab, Manoj Kumar rose to fame during the 1960s and 1970s through a string of films that celebrated Indian nationalism.
Known for his intense on-screen presence and patriotic themes, Kumar earned the affectionate moniker ‘Bharat Kumar’ -India personified.
His standout films include Shaheed (1965), Upkar (1967), Roti Kapada Aur Makaan (1974), and Kranti (1981), all of which explored themes of sacrifice, national pride, and the struggles of common citizens in post-independence India. These stories struck a deep emotional chord with audiences still grappling with the aftereffects of colonial rule.
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… pic.twitter.com/f8pYqOxol3
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute on X, calling him an “icon of Indian cinema.”
Even in the digital age, Kumar’s patriotic monologues and dialogues continued to go viral as memes, keeping his legacy alive among younger generations.
Throughout his career, Manoj Kumar received numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honor, and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest recognition in Indian cinema.
A pioneer of socially conscious and nationalist storytelling in film, Kumar’s cinematic voice became synonymous with the Indian identity.
