This morning, India bid farewell to one of its most iconic film personalities. Veteran actor, writer, and director Manoj Kumar passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai at 3:30 am on Friday. Known affectionately as Bharat Kumar for his deep love of the nation and the powerful patriotic themes of his films, actor Manoj Kumar has left behind an indelible mark on Indian cinema that transcends generations.
The legendary actor Manoj Kumar had been admitted to Kokilaben Dhirubai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai and, due to complications from heart-related issues, passed away early in the morning. As confirmed by the hospital, the secondary cause of death was decompensated liver cirrhosis. The veteran Bollywood actor’s death triggered an outpouring of grief across the country, with tributes flowing in from political leaders, Bollywood veterans, and countless fans who grew up watching his films.
The nation pays its tributes
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his heartfelt condolences on social media, calling actor Manoj Kumar “a true son of the soil whose films reflected the spirit of India.”
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Manoj Kumar ji. A visionary filmmaker and iconic actor whose work awakened the spirit of patriotism in countless Indians. His legacy will continue to inspire generations. Om Shanti.” – PM Modi
In the industry too, actors and directors alike took to social media to express their grief. Amitabh Bachchan, who shared screen space with the veteran Bollywood actor in films like Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, wrote: “Another pillar of our cinematic legacy has left us. Manoj ji was not only an inspiration but a deeply dignified man whose passion for storytelling moved an entire generation.”
Hindi film actor Manoj Kumar had been battling health issues for a long time, and speaking to the news agency ANI, his son Kunal Goswami said, “It's the grace of god that he bid adieu to this world peacefully. His cremation will take place tomorrow morning... He was happy. Just a little unwell."
The man behind Bharat Kumar
Born as Harikrishna Giri Goswami in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan) in 1937, actor Manoj Kumar adopted his screen name as a tribute to his idol, Dilip Kumar. The veteran Bollywood actor started his career in the late 1950s and quickly rose to prominence with his strong screen presence and acting chops.
But it was his turn toward socially conscious, patriotic cinema in the 1960s and 70s that would truly define the legacy of the nationalist filmmaker. Actor Manoj Kumar’s films like Shaheed, Upkar, and Purab Aur Paschim didn’t just entertain—they educated and inspired. His storytelling carried the flavour of India’s freedom struggle, post-independence anxieties, and the struggle of the common man, all wrapped beautifully in music, melodrama, and moral messaging.
Hindi film actor Manoj Kumar was not merely a formidable presence on the screen; he was a nationalist filmmaker with vision. He wrote, directed, and often produced the films he starred in, using cinema as a tool for national awakening. Upkar (1967), a film actor Manoj Kumar made at the suggestion of the then-Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri to promote his slogan Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, is often regarded as a cultural landmark in the history of the Indian films
Awards of Manoj Kumar
Throughout his career, actor Manoj Kumar has received numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. He was awarded the Padma Shri in 1992 for his contribution to Indian cinema. In 2016, the veteran Bollywood actor received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, which is India’s highest honour in film, recognizing a lifetime of cinematic excellence and social messaging.
The legacy that lives on
While the newer generations may know him through film festival retrospectives or Sunday reruns on Doordarshan, Hindi film actor Manoj Kumar’s relevance is eternal. The veteran Bollywood actor’s commitment to telling stories that mattered, particularly at a time when Bollywood was veering toward escapism, set him apart from many others of his era.
In an industry now brimming with noise, spectacle, and cynicism, the nationalist filmmaker’s fine creations are a beautiful reminder of cinema’s potential as a social tool. Actor Manoj Kumar’s narratives, often steeped in sacrifice, national pride, and rural upliftment, continue to be extremely relevant in a nation still grappling with the issues he then brought to the screen.
5 Manoj Kumar films that are a must watch
What better way to pay your tributes to the veteran Bollywood actor than to celebrate his cinematic legacy? If you're new to his stellar body of work or want to revisit the legend’s best, here are five essential Manoj Kumar films that are a masterclass in thoughtful storytelling.
Shaheed (1965)
The poignant biopic on Bhagat Singh is both thought-provoking and haunting. Actor Manoj Kumar’s powerful portrayal of the revolutionary leader brought an unparalleled emotional depth to the story of India's freedom struggle.
Upkar (1967)
Another of Manoj Kumar films with nationalist sensibilities, and a deeply emotional tribute to India’s farmers and soldiers, Upkar follows the story of a brother who sacrifices his dreams to serve his nation. This is also the film that gave us the song ‘Mere Desh Ki Dharti, ’ which has long been the one to come to mind when looking for patriotic songs.
Purab Aur Paschim (1970)
This film is simply synonymous with the veteran Bollywood actor. A poignant east-meets-west tale that questions cultural alienation and celebrates the depth of Indian values, this is one of the most loved of Manoj Kumar films. The nationalist filmmaker’s direction as well as the performance, redefined what it means to be modern while remaining rooted.
Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974)
A bold social commentary by the nationalist filmmaker on the most basic needs of the common man—food, clothing, and shelter, this is one of the finest Manoj Kumar films. Even today, it remains incredibly relevant, exploring the social themes of poverty, unemployment, and political corruption.
Kranti (1981)
A mega-budget historical epic set during the British Raj, Kranti was one of the biggest hits of its time. It’s a patriotic saga packed with emotion, rebellion, and unforgettable performances, making it one of the most loved Manoj Kumar films.
As we mourn the passing of actor Manoj Kumar, we are also called to celebrate his cinematic contributions. The veteran Bollywood actor may have left the mortal world, but the revolutionary ideals he championed, the powerful characters he brought to life, and the India he loved so fiercely will continue to live on in all our hearts.