Raj Babbar Advocates for Bharat Ratna for Manoj Kumar

Synopsis

Raj Babbar, the veteran actor, mourns the loss of Manoj Kumar and advocates for the Bharat Ratna award, honoring Kumar's contributions to Indian cinema and patriotism. His final rites were attended by family and film industry colleagues, highlighting his impact on Indian culture.

Key Takeaways

Raj Babbar calls for Bharat Ratna for Manoj Kumar.
Manoj Kumar's contributions to Indian cinema celebrated.
His final rites were a state funeral.
Prominent film industry figures attended the funeral.
He was recognized for his work in portraying patriotism.

Mumbai, April 5 (NationPress) The renowned actor Raj Babbar expressed his sorrow over the passing of Manoj Kumar. He urged the government to award India’s highest civilian honor, Bharat Ratna, to the departed star.

Speaking to IANS at Pawan Hans after Manoj Kumar received a state farewell, Raj Babbar stated, “The film industry has lost a true treasure today. Manoj Kumar dedicated his life to upholding the pride of India, honoring the nation’s freedom fighters through his cinematic contributions. As a director, writer, and actor, he passionately conveyed themes of patriotism. He was exceptionally noble and won the love of the audience.”

He further reminisced, “I recall when I was beginning work on ‘Shaheed Uddham Singh’ and sought his blessings. I met him in Delhi and shared that I was making this film and would need his support. I told him, ‘When people think of our great freedom fighter Bhagat Singh, they immediately visualize you; you are the face of Bhagat Singh in cinema.’ He blessed me, acknowledging that he inspired me to create this film. He said, ‘Raj, you will excel.’ When I presented the rough cut to him, he appreciated it and suggested minor edits.”

“There is no doubt that Manoj Kumar has significantly contributed to nation-building through his films. He rightfully deserves the Bharat Ratna award,” he concluded.

The last rites of Manoj Kumar were conducted in the Vile Parle area of Mumbai. His remains were transported from the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital and Medical Research Institute to his residence at Goswami Towers at 10:00 AM on Saturday, with the final ceremonies taking place at the Pawan Hans crematorium.

Footage from his home depicted family members and staff arranging floral tributes, while an ambulance draped in tri-color flowers, symbolizing the national flag, carried his remains.

His last rites were attended by friends and family as he received a state funeral, including a Guard of Honour.

Prominent figures from the film industry such as Amitabh Bachchan, Salim Khan, their sons Abhishek Bachchan and Arbaaz Khan, and other celebrities like Prem Chopra, Raza Murad, Vindu Dara Singh, Anu Malik, and Dheeraj Kumar were also present.