Mumbai, April 4 – Renowned Indian actor, director, and the face of patriotic cinema, Manoj Kumar, passed away early Thursday morning at the age of 87. He breathed his last at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, where he was admitted due to age-related ailments. Known lovingly as ‘Bharat Kumar’, Manoj Kumar’s death marks the end of an era for Indian cinema and its deeply rooted nationalistic storytelling.
An Icon of Patriotic Cinema
Born Harikishan Giri Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Manoj Kumar witnessed the pain of Partition firsthand. His family migrated to Delhi, where he nurtured a passion for acting inspired by legends like Ashok Kumar and Dilip Kumar. He began his cinematic journey in 1957 with the film ‘Fashion’, gaining prominence in ‘Kaanch Ki Gudiya’ (1960).
However, it was films like ‘Upkar,’ ‘Purab Aur Paschim,’ ‘Roti Kapda Aur Makaan,’ and ‘Kranti’ that cemented his place in the hearts of millions. His screen persona often bore the name ‘Bharat’, earning him the affectionate moniker ‘Bharat Kumar’ from fans.
Prime Minister Modi Pays Tribute
Expressing deep sorrow, wrote on social media:
“Deeply saddened by the passing away of legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar Ji. A symbol of patriotic fervor, he awakened a sense of national pride through his timeless works. His contribution to Indian cinema and national sentiment will continue to inspire generations. My condolences to his family and fans. Om Shanti.”
A Life Steeped in Nationhood
In 1965, after the Indo-Pak war, Manoj Kumar met then Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri, who encouraged him to make a film based on the slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan.” This gave birth to the cinematic masterpiece ‘Upkar’, which remains a symbol of nationalism in Indian film history.
Despite his popularity, Manoj Kumar faced political backlash during the Emergency for voicing dissent. His film ‘Shor’ was abruptly aired on television before its theatrical re-release, and ‘Dus Numbri’ faced a government ban.
Remembered by the Industry
Veteran filmmaker Ashoke Pandit described Kumar as “a lion of Indian cinema,” stating:
“He was more than just a filmmaker; he was a voice of the people, a reflection of India’s soul.”
From Dadasaheb Phalke Award to national honors, Manoj Kumar received numerous accolades for his lifetime contributions to Indian cinema.
A Final Goodbye
Manoj Kumar’s body of work resonates deeply with generations of Indians, and his legacy as a champion of patriotism through art will live on. The nation mourns not just an actor, but an idealist who made patriotism cinematic.