Veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, fondly known as “Bharat Kumar” for his enduring portrayal of patriotic themes in Indian cinema, passed away on Wednesday due to heart-related complications at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. He was 87.
The news of his demise has sent a wave of grief across the nation, with tributes pouring in from the film fraternity and political leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid his respects via a heartfelt post on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “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.”
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… pic.twitter.com/f8pYqOxol3
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025
Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma also expressed his sorrow, reminiscing about the impact of Manoj Kumar’s films. Taking to X, he wrote,
आज भी मनोज कुमार जी की फिल्में देशवासियों को प्रेरणा देती हैं और नए सपने देखने की ऊर्जा भरती हैं। उनकी फिल्मों के गीतों से मेरे बचपन की कई यादें जुड़ी हुई हैं।
एक कलाकार रहे या न रहे, उसकी कला अमर रहती है।
ओम् शांति 🙏🏽 pic.twitter.com/fU1EREzglj
— Himanta Biswa Sarma (@himantabiswa) April 4, 2025
Born Harikrishna Giri Goswami, Manoj Kumar became synonymous with national pride and cultural values, often portraying characters that upheld India’s moral fabric and social integrity. With a career spanning over five decades, his filmography is a testament to socially conscious storytelling and cinematic excellence.
His landmark film Upkar (1967), inspired by former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri’s slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan,” not only established his patriotic persona but also earned him several accolades, including the National Film Award for Best Feature Film and multiple Filmfare Awards. It also earned him the moniker “Bharat Kumar,” a name that stayed with him for life.
Honors and Awards
-
National Film Award for Upkar (1967)
-
Padma Shri in 1992 for his contributions to Indian cinema
-
Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015, India’s highest cinematic honor
-
Multiple Filmfare Awards including Best Actor (Be-Imaan), Best Director (Roti Kapda Aur Makaan), and a Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999
Iconic Films That Shaped a Generation
Patriotic Epics:
-
Shaheed (1965): A stirring portrayal of freedom fighter Bhagat Singh
-
Purab Aur Paschim (1970): Addressed cultural identity and patriotism
-
Kranti (1981): A blockbuster chronicling India’s fight for independence
Social Dramas:
-
Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974): Tackled issues like poverty and corruption
-
Shor (1972): An emotional story of a father’s love and sacrifice
Romantic and Thriller Classics:
-
Woh Kaun Thi? (1964): A psychological thriller featuring the iconic “Lag Jaa Gale”
-
Himalay Ki God Mein (1965): A rural drama emphasizing humanitarian values
Box Office Successes:
-
Be-Imaan (1972): A critically acclaimed and commercially successful film
-
Dus Numbri (1976): His highest-grossing movie that became a mass favorite
Manoj Kumar’s influence on Indian cinema transcends genres. He was not only a compelling actor but also a visionary director who used film as a medium for nation-building. His ability to weave themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and justice into mainstream entertainment made him a beacon of socially responsible cinema.
His passing marks the end of an era, but his films and ideals continue to echo through generations. As India mourns the loss of a true cinematic legend, Manoj Kumar’s work remains a lighthouse guiding the spirit of national pride and artistic integrity.
