Veteran Bollywood actor and ‘Bharat Kumar’ Manoj Kumar, famous for patriotic films, died at the age of 87. He breathed his last at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. His death has given a severe shock to Indian cinema. Manoj Kumar was awarded the Padma Shri and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award. Manoj Kumar, who was ill for a long time, will be cremated at Pawan Hans crematorium tomorrow at 9 am.
Prime Minister Modi shared old photos and expressed grief
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief by sharing his old pictures with Manoj on social media. He wrote, “Deeply saddened by the demise of great actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema. The spirit of patriotism was clearly visible in his films. He awakened the feeling of national pride in people through his works. He will remain a source of inspiration for generations to come. My condolences to his family and fans 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
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described him as a versatile artist
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also expressed deep condolences on the demise of Manoj Kumar. He said, “Manoj Kumar ji was a versatile artist who will always be remembered for his patriotic films. His wonderful roles in films like ‘Upkaar’ and ‘Purab Aur Paschim’ are still alive in the hearts of people. He was popular among the people as ‘Bharat Kumar’. His film contribution will continue to inspire generations to come. My tribute to his family and fans. Om Shanti.”
Shri Manoj Kumar ji was a versatile actor, who would always be remembered for making films full of patriotism. Popularly known as ‘Bharat Kumar’ his unforgettable performances in films like ‘Upkaar’, ‘Purab and Paschim’ have enriched our culture and have endeared him to people…
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) April 4, 2025
Seven Filmfare Awards and films that became an example of patriotism
Manoj Kumar won a total of seven Filmfare Awards in his film career. He received his first Filmfare Award in 1968. The song “Mere Desh Ki Dharti Sona Ugle” from his film Upkaar still tops the list of patriotic songs. This film received four Filmfare Awards – for best film, director, story and dialogue. In the year 2016, he was awarded the Dadasaheb Phalke Award , the highest honor of Indian cinema . Manoj Kumar made his mark not only as an actor but also as a writer and director. His contribution will be written in golden letters in the history of Indian cinema.
