Explorer

Filmmaker-Actor Manoj Kumar Passes Away At 87 In Mumbai

Actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar aka Bharat Kumar passes away the Kokila Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital at the age of 87. He was well known for his patriotic films.

Actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar aka Bharat Kumar passes away the Kokila Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital at the age of 87. He was well known for his patriotic films.

Manoj Kumar's mortal remains will be kept in his Juhu residence from Friday afternoon for the industry and fans to pay their respects. The cremation will most likely happen on Saturday. 

As per medical reports, cited by ANI, the cause of his death was a cardiogenic shock due to acute myocardial infarction, a severe heart attack. The news agency also stated that Manoj Kumar had been fighting decompensated liver cirrhosis for the past few months, which contributed to his declining health.

He was hospitalized on February 21, 2025, following a deterioration in his condition.

 

Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit expressed his grief over the passing of veteran actor and director Manoj Kumar, stating, "The legendary Dadasaheb Phalke awardee, our inspiration, and the 'lion' of the Indian film industry, Manoj Kumar Ji, is no more. His loss is immeasurable, and the entire industry will deeply miss him."

About Manoj Kumar

Veteran Indian actor, director, and screenwriter Manoj Kumar, renowned for his patriotic films and enduring legacy in Hindi cinema, has passed away, leaving behind a monumental contribution to the industry. Born Harikrishna Giri Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (then British India, now in Pakistan), Manoj Kumar and his family moved to India during the Partition. Inspired by Dilip Kumar's film Shabnam (1949), he adopted the screen name "Manoj Kumar" and ventured into acting, eventually becoming one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated figures.

A Career Defined by Patriotism & Social Cinema

Manoj Kumar’s career took off in the 1960s, with notable performances in films like Shaheed (1965), where he portrayed Bhagat Singh, earning him critical acclaim. However, it was Upkar (1967)—which he also directed—that cemented his image as the quintessential patriotic hero. Inspired by Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri’s call for "Jai Jawan Jai Kisan," Upkar glorified the sacrifices of soldiers and farmers, making Manoj Kumar synonymous with nationalism in Indian cinema.

He continued this legacy with films like Purab Aur Paschim (1970), Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974), and Kranti (1981), blending social themes with cinematic brilliance. His contributions earned him the nickname "Bharat Kumar", as he frequently embodied characters devoted to India’s ideals and struggles.

Awards & Recognition For his outstanding work

Manoj Kumar received multiple accolades, including: National Film Award for Upkar Filmfare Awards for his acting and direction Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2015), India’s highest honor in cinema, recognizing his lifelong contribution to Indian films.

A Lasting Legacy

Beyond his patriotic persona, Manoj Kumar was a master storyteller who shaped the cinematic landscape with films that resonated deeply with Indian audiences. His influence extended beyond acting, inspiring generations of filmmakers and actors who admired his dedication to meaningful storytelling.

As the Indian film industry mourns the loss of this legendary figure, his films and ideals will continue to inspire millions. Manoj Kumar was not just a filmmaker—he was an institution, a symbol of unwavering patriotism, and a timeless icon of Indian cinema.

Rest in peace, Manoj Kumar Ji. Your legacy will live on forever.

About the author ABP Live Entertainment

ABP Live Entertainment brings you the latest from the world of films, OTT, television and celebrity culture, tracking box office numbers, streaming trends, star buzz and pop culture moments across India and beyond, with crisp, credible reporting that keeps readers plugged into everything that’s trending, talking, and taking over screens.

Read More

Top Headlines

Sonu Nigam Admits Using Auto-Tune In Some Songs, Says It Shouldn’t Be Used To ‘Fix’ Non-Singers
Sonu Nigam Admits Using Auto-Tune In Some Songs, Says It Shouldn’t Be Used To ‘Fix’ Non-Singers
YouTuber Akhil NRD’s Wife Leaves Home At Midnight, CCTV Footage Goes Viral
YouTuber Akhil NRD’s Wife Leaves Home At Midnight, CCTV Footage Goes Viral
Dulquer Salmaan’s 'I’m Game' Release Delayed From August 20 To September 3: Here’s Why
Dulquer Salmaan’s 'I’m Game' Release Delayed From August 20 To September 3: Here’s Why
Kangana Ranaut Doubles Down Gen Z Remark: ‘More Than Half Were Shabana Azmi-Type People’
Kangana Ranaut Doubles Down Gen Z Remark: ‘More Than Half Were Shabana Azmi-Type People’

Videos

STUDENT PROTEST: Nursing Students’ Agitation Intensifies in Bhopal, Schoolchildren Protest in Uttarakhand
NATIONAL: Amit Shah Hoists Tricolour Under ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ Campaign
POLITICAL MESSAGE: SPP MPs Deposit ₹2.15 Lakh Collected During Parliament Protest at Hanuman Temple
PARLIAMENT: Lathicharge Row Triggers Uproar in Parliament Complex
BIG REVELATION: Air India Pilot’s Drug Test Sparks Major Aviation Safety Questions

Photo Gallery

25°C
New Delhi
Rain: 100mm
Humidity: 97%
Wind: WNW 47km/h
See Today's Weather
powered by
Accu Weather
Embed widget