Veteran Actor Manoj Kumar Passes Away at 87, Remembered for His Patriotism and Legacy in Indian Cinema

Veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar passed away early today at the age of 87. He died of age-related health issues at Kokilaben Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, where he had been hospitalized for several weeks. His son, Kunal, confirmed that the actor had been bedridden for years and most recently admitted due to pneumonia.

Known for Patriotism On and Off Screen

Manoj Kumar earned the nickname ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his string of patriotic films such as Shaheed, Upkar, and Purab Aur Paschim. His dedication to national themes was not just cinematic — he once donated his entire prize money from the National Award he won for Shaheed (1965) to the family of freedom fighter Bhagat Singh.

“I donated the entire amount I got for my national award for Shaheed to Shaheed Bhagat Singh’s family,” he told Hindustan Times in a 2016 interview.

National Recognition and Acclaimed Films

Manoj Kumar received his first National Award in 1965 for Shaheed, where he played the role of Bhagat Singh.

He won another in 1967 for Upkar, a film that became a cultural symbol of patriotism.

The actor was later honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest recognition in cinema.

Memories of Satyajit Ray and Artistic Debates

In the same 2016 interview, Kumar recalled a candid conversation with acclaimed filmmaker Satyajit Ray. When Ray found Upkar too melodramatic, Kumar countered by pointing out similar emotional elements in Charulata. Ray acknowledged the point warmly, highlighting their mutual respect as artists.

Tributes from the Film Industry and Political Leaders

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute on X (formerly Twitter):

“Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji... His works ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations.”

Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, a family friend, also confirmed his passing and called it the end of an era in patriotic Indian cinema.

Life and Background

Born Harikrishan Goswami in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Manoj Kumar’s family migrated to Delhi after India’s partition.

He graduated from Hindu College, Delhi, before moving to Mumbai to join the film industry.

Apart from his patriotic films, Kumar was known for hits like Do Badan, Haryali Aur Rasta, and Gumnaam.

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