Bollywood Icon Manoj Kumar, Known for Patriotic Films, Bids Final Goodbye in Mumbai, at age 87
Mumbai, 04-04-2025: Veteran actor-filmmaker Manoj Kumar, fondly known as ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his string of patriotic films, passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai. The celebrated filmmaker and actor, who played an instrumental role in shaping Indian cinema’s nationalist narrative, breathed his last at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital around 3:30 a.m. on Friday. Kumar had been ailing for some time due to age-related health complications and had been frequently in and out of the hospital in recent years. His passing marks the end of an era that saw Indian cinema blend patriotism with mainstream storytelling.
The news of Kumar’s demise was confirmed by family friend and filmmaker Ashoke Pandit, who stated that the veteran actor had been hospitalized for several weeks prior to his passing. Dr. Santosh Shetty, CEO and executive director of the hospital, also issued a statement acknowledging Kumar’s prolonged illness. His son, Kunal, expressed that his father had been battling multiple ailments and had been bedridden for the past few years. The actor was last admitted to the hospital due to pneumonia.
Manoj Kumar’s contributions to Indian cinema were unparalleled. Born as Harikrishan Goswami in Abbottabad, now in Pakistan, Kumar’s family migrated to Delhi during the partition. He completed his graduation from Hindu College before setting his sights on Mumbai, where he pursued a career in the film industry. His love for cinema was deeply influenced by legendary actor Dilip Kumar. In a 2021 interview, Kumar reminisced about how he was inspired to adopt the name “Manoj” after watching Dilip Kumar’s performance in the 1949 film “Shabnam,” where the veteran actor played a character of the same name. His admiration for the legendary actor came full circle when Dilip Kumar later starred in his film “Kranti,” a moment that Kumar described as one of the greatest honors of his career.
Kumar’s journey in Bollywood began with minor roles, but he rose to prominence with Vijay Bhatt’s 1962 romantic drama “Hariyali Aur Rasta,” where he starred opposite Mala Sinha. He followed it up with the psychological thriller “Woh Kaun Thi?” alongside Sadhana, which remains memorable for its haunting melodies like “Lag Jaa Gale.” However, it was in 1965 that Kumar solidified his place in cinematic history with “Shaheed,” a biopic based on the life of Bhagat Singh. The film resonated deeply with audiences and even caught the attention of then-Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri.
It was a conversation with Shastri that led Kumar to direct “Upkar” in 1967, a film inspired by the slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan.” His directorial debut turned out to be a massive success, and its song “Mere Desh Ki Dharti” continues to be a patriotic anthem in India. This marked the beginning of Kumar’s unique brand of socially responsible cinema, which he carried forward with films such as “Purab Aur Paschim” (1970), a story about cultural contrasts between the East and the West, and “Roti Kapda Aur Makaan” (1974), which tackled socio-economic disparities in India.
In between his patriotic ventures, Kumar also showcased his versatility by portraying romantic leads in films like “Himalay Ki God Mein,” “Do Badan,” “Sawan Ki Ghata,” and the thriller “Gumnaam.” However, his patriotic fervor on-screen soon earned him the moniker “Bharat Kumar,” as audiences began associating him with the idealistic and nationalist values reflected in his films.
In 1981, he directed “Kranti,” a historical epic that depicted India’s struggle against British colonial rule. The film, featuring an ensemble cast including Dilip Kumar, Shashi Kapoor, and Hema Malini, became one of the biggest hits of the decade and further cemented Kumar’s status as a filmmaker who celebrated India’s heritage and resilience.
Over the years, Kumar received numerous accolades for his contribution to Indian cinema. He was honored with the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest award in the field of cinema, for his invaluable contribution to the industry. His legacy as a filmmaker and actor is not only defined by the box office successes he delivered but also by the indelible impact he left on the collective consciousness of Indian audiences.
In the wake of his passing, tributes poured in from across the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief on social media, calling Kumar an “icon of Indian cinema.” He acknowledged the filmmaker’s role in igniting a spirit of national pride through his films, stating that Kumar’s legacy would continue to inspire generations.
Kumar’s death marks the end of an era that celebrated cinema as a tool for social and national awakening. His storytelling, deeply rooted in the ethos of patriotism, continues to resonate with audiences, proving that his vision and ideals remain timeless. As the Indian film industry mourns the loss of one of its most revered figures, Manoj Kumar’s contributions will forever be remembered as an integral part of the country’s cinematic and cultural fabric.
