The curtains have drawn on an era of patriotic cinema with the passing of legendary Bollywood actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar. Fondly known as ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his nationalistic films, Manoj Kumar breathed his last in Mumbai at the age of 87. He succumbed to cardiogenic shock following acute myocardial infarction, as per medical reports. The veteran had been battling decompensated liver cirrhosis in recent months and was admitted to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital on February 21, 2025.
Born as Harikrishan Goswami in Abbottabad (present-day Pakistan) in 1937, Manoj Kumar’s early life was marked by the upheaval of Partition, which led his family to migrate to Delhi. Inspired by screen icons Dilip Kumar, Ashok Kumar, and Kamini Kaushal, he adopted the screen name Manoj Kumar and pursued a degree from Hindu College before venturing into cinema.
His career breakthrough came with Hariyali Aur Rasta in 1962, and soon after, he captivated audiences in Raj Khosla’s Woh Kaun Thi?. But it was his powerful portrayal of patriotism in films like Shaheed, Upkar, Roti Kapada Aur Makaan, Purab Aur Paschim, and Kranti that etched his name in the annals of Indian cinema. His contributions were celebrated with the Padma Shri in 1992 and the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015.
Over decades, Manoj Kumar remained a towering figure in the Hindi film industry—both as an actor and director—whose stories resonated with the common man and ignited national pride. His cinematic legacy is enriched with iconic performances and memorable narratives that transcended generations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on X, stating, “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… Manoj Ji’s works ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations.”
With his demise, Indian cinema bids adieu to a true son of the soil, a storyteller who gave voice to the soul of a nation. Manoj Kumar’s life and legacy will forever remain a cornerstone of patriotic storytelling in Bollywood.
