This is sad! Veteran Bollywood actor and director, Manoj Kumar has passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai.
According to reports, the thespian died due to age-related health issues.
The doctor in charge, at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Dr. Santosh Shetty made this sad revelation.
Kumar’s son, Kunal Goswami, confirmed that the actor had been struggling with health problems for an extended period.
Known for his patriotic films, Kumar became a household name in the 1960s and 1970s. His work left an enduring legacy, with films such as Shaheed, Roti Kapada Aur Makaan, and Kranti becoming iconic representations of national pride and sacrifice.
Tributes have poured in from fans, celebrities, and politicians. Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to him as an “icon of Indian cinema,” adding that his work would continue to inspire generations. “Manoj Ji’s works ignited a spirit of national pride,” Modi wrote in a post on X.
Contemporary actors like Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn also expressed their sorrow, with Kumar describing how Manoj Kumar’s films instilled a sense of love and pride for the nation, while Devgn hailed him for creating moments that are now part of “Indian cinema’s golden history.”
Born Harikrishan Goswami in Punjab in 1937, Kumar’s films often centered on themes of patriotism, farmers’ struggles, and the sacrifices of freedom fighters. His portrayal of national pride earned him the affectionate title of ‘Bharat Kumar’ from his fans and peers.
Kumar’s contributions to cinema earned him numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the country’s highest cinematic honor. His films continue to inspire both audiences and filmmakers alike.