The Indian film industry has bid farewell one of its most iconic figures. Manoj Kumar,  the veteran actor, filmmaker, and symbol of patriotic Indian cinema, passed away early Friday morning at the age of 87. With his death, India mourns not just a star but a storyteller who brought the nation’s spirit, struggles, and triumphs to life on screen.

The acclaimed actor, known to generations as Bharat Kumar, died at 3:30 am at Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital due to heart-related complications. According to the hospital’s medical report, decompensated liver cirrhosis was listed as a secondary cause.

His son, Kunal Goswami, confirmed the news and shared that the veteran actor had been dealing with long-term health issues. “It’s the grace of God that he left this world peacefully,” he said. The actor’s mortal remains will lie in state at his Juhu residence, with the cremation scheduled for Saturday at noon at the Pawan Hans Crematorium.

KIng of patriotic cinema

Born Harikrishna Giri Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Manoj Kumar’s early life was shaped by the Partition of India, a defining event that would later inspire the strong nationalist themes in his films.

Starting his career in the late 1950s, he quickly rose to fame with his powerful performances and visionary filmmaking. His breakthrough came with Shaheed (1965), and he went on to redefine patriotic cinema with classics like Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Kranti (1981).

Upkar, inspired by then-Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri’s slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan,” struck a deep chord with audiences and became a cultural landmark. His films often explored themes of integrity, sacrifice, and national pride — connecting with viewers across generations.

In recognition of his contributions, Manoj Kumar was awarded the Padma Shri in 1992 and India’s highest film honour, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, in 2015.

Tributes Flow In

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes, writing on X (formerly Twitter):

“He was an icon of Indian cinema, particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, 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. Om Shanti.”

Actor Akshay Kumar also paid his respects on social media: “I grew up learning from him that there’s no emotion like love and pride for our country. If we actors don’t lead in showing that, who will? A fine human being and one of the greatest contributors to Indian cinema. RIP, Manoj Sir. Om Shanti.”

Billionaire businessman Anand Mahindra reflected on the emotional connection his family shared with the actor’s work: “I feel like I’ve lost a part of my childhood. My family never missed a Manoj Kumar film. I still remember the wave of patriotism Purab Aur Paschim created. Manoj Kumar wasn’t just an actor — he became a member of every household.”

A Legacy That Lives On

Manoj Kumar’s passing marks the end of a golden era in Indian cinema, but his legacy is immortal. His films will continue to resonate in the hearts of those who believe in the transformative power of cinema.

Thank you, Manoj Kumar, for reminding us that cinema can be more than entertainment; it can be a force for unity, pride, and purpose.

(Inputs from agencies)