The ‘Bharat Kumar’ of Bollywood: Manoj Kumar bids goodbye to the world, last rites on Saturday

MUMBAI: Manoj Kumar, the legendary actor and filmmaker who etched his name in the annals of Indian cinema, passed away at the age of 87. Kumar’s son, Kunal Goswami, confirmed that his last rites will be performed at 11 am tomorrow at Pawan Hans in front of Nanavati Hospital in Vile Parle.

The actor, famously known as “Bharat Kumar” for his patriotic roles, died at 4:03 am on April 4, 2025, at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. His death was attributed to cardiogenic shock following an acute myocardial infarction.

Additionally, Kumar had been struggling with decompensated liver cirrhosis for several months, which contributed to his deteriorating health. He was admitted to the hospital on February 21, 2025, and has since been under medical care.

Born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Kumar’s journey from a young, aspiring actor to a celebrated film personality is being remembered today.

Although his career began in the late 1950s, it was in the 1960s and 1970s that he truly emerged as one of Bollywood’s biggest stars. His portrayal of patriotic characters in films like Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Shaheed made him a national icon, earning him the nickname “Bharat Kumar.”

#WATCH | On the demise of Indian actor and film director Manoj Kumar, his son, Kunal Goswami, says, “… He passed away at 3:30 in the night at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Andheri. He was admitted for the last 2-3 weeks. There were many health-related complications due… pic.twitter.com/Z3jMoThSFl

— ANI (@ANI) April 4, 2025

Throughout his illustrious career, Kumar not only acted but also directed and produced numerous successful films, many of which resonated deeply with the Indian audience’s sense of nationalism and pride. His most notable achievements include his directorial debut Upkar (1967), which was a massive success and won him the National Film Award for Second Best Feature Film.

Kumar’s directorial skills were further showcased in films like Purab Aur Paschim (1970) and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974), both of which were critical and commercial triumphs. Over the years, Kumar won several prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri in 1992, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015, and numerous Filmfare accolades.

His contributions to Indian cinema have left an indelible mark, with his films continuing to inspire filmmakers and actors alike. Kumar’s legacy is not just confined to the silver screen. His films celebrated the values of patriotism, integrity, and national unity, themes that resonate with cinephiles even today.

As an actor, director, and lyricist, he defined an era of Indian cinema that transcended borders and left an everlasting impact on generations of moviegoers. Manoj Kumar’s death marks the end of an era in Bollywood. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations of filmmakers and audiences.

Kumar also chose to pursue a career in politics after his retirement. Ahead of the 2004 general elections in India, he formally became a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party. The Indian film industry is mourning the loss of the legendary actor, director, and filmmaker.

Speaking to the media, Manoj Kumar’s son Kunal Goswami thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his heartfelt tweet, saying, “I thank PM Narendra Modi for his tweet… Be it Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, or Roti Kapada Aur Makaan, these movies are still relevant today. The issues he raised are still relevant today whether in the Parliament or in the society…”

Manoj Kumar’s cousin, Manish R Goswami, described him as “a true countryman, a true Indian” who made most of his films about the country. Goswami also mentioned that PM Modi and Manoj Kumar had an old relationship, having met during the Dadasaheb Phalke Award and also when PM Modi came to Mumbai.

In a heartfelt message on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow, writing, “Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, who was particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was also reflected in his films. Manoj Ji’s works ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.” (ANI)