April 4, 2025: Manoj Kumar, one of Indian cinema’s most beloved and celebrated figures, has passed away at the age of 87. The veteran actor, director, and producer died on April 4 at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai after a prolonged battle with illness. His death has left a void in the Indian film industry, with tributes pouring in from across the country.
Veteran actor Dharmendra paid his last respects to his dear friend and colleague Manoj Kumar who passed away on Friday morning at the age of 87.
Dharmendra paid his respects at the residence of the late actor today. The two actors shared a strong bond and collaborated in several iconic films, including ‘Mera Naam Joker’, ‘Maidan-E-Jung’, and ‘Shaadi.’ “We have many memories together. We spent our earlier days in the film industry together” Dharmendra said.
Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar shared his heartfelt condolences and praised Kumar’s immense contributions to Indian cinema. He highlighted how Kumar’s films, particularly those infused with patriotism, resonated deeply with the audience. “Manoj ji has a big contribution. As an audience, many people connect to his movies and songs. People of the country and filmmakers will never forget his contribution,” Bhandarkar said. “He was one filmmaker who used to infuse a lot of patriotism and national pride into his work.”
Bollywood actor Raveena Tandon also remembered Kumar fondly, recalling his genius and innovative spirit. “He was ahead of his time,” she said, emphasizing how Kumar’s work had a lasting impact on her and her family. Raveena spoke about how Kumar had played a key role in her father’s career, giving him his first break in the film Balidaan. She also shared how his films, particularly the patriotic themes, shaped her own sense of patriotism. “The patriotism that I have in me, I would say, has come from him, his films, and my father,” she added.
Kumar, born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now part of Pakistan), rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s. He earned the title of “Bharat Kumar” for his iconic roles in patriotic films like Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Shaheed. His films often celebrated Indian culture and nationalism, and he was known for instilling a sense of national pride in his audiences.
Apart from his acting career, Kumar was also a successful filmmaker. His directorial debut, Upkar (1967), won the National Film Award for Second Best Feature Film, a testament to his talent behind the camera. He went on to direct other successful films like Purab Aur Paschim (1970) and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974), both of which were critical and commercial successes.
Kumar’s passing has not only left a mark on Bollywood but also on the hearts of millions of fans who admired his patriotism, acting prowess, and contributions to Indian cinema. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of filmmakers and actors who seek to convey the power of patriotism through the art of cinema.