Bollywood Pays Tribute To Manoj Kumar: Aamir, Salman And Others Mourn The Icon’s Passing

April 4, 2025: The Indian film industry has lost one of its most iconic figures, Manoj Kumar, who passed away on April 4, 2025, at the age of 87. As condolences poured in from all corners of Bollywood, several top celebrities expressed their grief and fond memories of the late actor-filmmaker.

Superstars Salman Khan and Aamir Khan were among the first to share their heartfelt tributes. Taking to his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Salman Khan remembered Manoj Kumar as a “true legend,” writing, “Manoj Kumar Ji… a true legend. Thank you for the unforgettable films and memories…”

Aamir Khan, also reflecting on Kumar’s influence, shared a statement saying, “Manoj Kumar was not just an actor and filmmaker; he was an institution. I have learned so much from watching his films. His films often focused on important social themes, which brought him closer to the common man. My heartfelt condolences to his family.”

Taking to his X handle, Akshay tweeted, “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.”

Actress Raveena Tandon, known for her admiration of Manoj Kumar, shared how much she respected . She called him a “genius” who was “ahead of his time.” Recalling the significant impact he had on her father’s life, she fondly mentioned, “He was so close to me. He gave the first break to my father in Balidaan. My father was so close to him. He was ahead of his time. When he gave the song ‘Jab zero diya mere Bharat ne,’ there was no concept of a revolving restaurant in India, so he created something like that. He was always a genius.”

Taking to X, Ajay Devgn wrote, “Manoj Kumar ji was not just a cinematic icon – he was a personal milestone in my family’s journey. He gave my father, Veeru Devgan, his very first break as an action director in Roti Kapda Aur Makaan. From there, their collaboration continued all the way to Kranti, creating moments that are now part of Indian cinema’s golden history.”

Singer Nitin Mukesh also expressed his deep gratitude to the late actor, who played a pivotal role in his career. Mukesh reminisced about his early days in the industry, recalling how Manoj Kumar was one of the first to support him. “He called my mother and told her, ‘Bhabhi ji, I was deeply indebted to Kripa Ram ji, but I promise you that I will make sure Nitin sings in my films. Whatever I can do for Nitin in life, I will do.’ Today, whatever I am is because of Manoj ji’s love,” said Mukesh. He also fondly remembered singing the iconic song “Zindagi Ki Na Tute Ladi” from Kranti, a film that Kumar directed.

The outpouring of tributes didn’t just come from the film industry. Political leaders also expressed their condolences. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Manoj Kumar as an “icon of Indian cinema,” praising his ability to instill national pride through his films. Other prominent leaders like Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also remembered Kumar’s contribution to Indian cinema and his role in promoting patriotism.

Manoj Kumar, born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), was affectionately known as “Bharat Kumar” for his portrayal of patriotic roles. He made his mark with films like Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Shaheed, which became synonymous with nationalism. His directorial debut, Upkar (1967), won the National Film Award for Second Best Feature Film, and he continued to enjoy success both as an actor and a filmmaker throughout the 1960s and 1970s.

Kumar’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, and his influence continues to resonate with audiences and fellow filmmakers. As his family and fans bid farewell, the industry remembers him as not just an actor but a true icon whose legacy will live on through his work.