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.

By : ABP Live Entertainment | Updated at : 04 Apr 2025 08:57 AM (IST)

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.
Source : IMDb

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.

Published at : 04 Apr 2025 07:30 AM (IST)
Tags :
Manoj Kumar Ashoke Pandit Breaking News ABP Live Bharat Kumar

Follow Entertainment News on ABP Live for more latest stories and trending topics. Watch breaking news and top headlines online on ABP News LIVE TV
View More