Legendary Actor and Director Manoj Kumar Passes Away; PM Modi Honors His Legacy of National Pride

Synopsis
Beloved actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar has passed away at 87 in Mumbai. Prime Minister Modi expressed his sorrow, highlighting Kumar's legacy of igniting national pride through his films. Kumar, known as 'Bharat Kumar', received several prestigious accolades, including the Padma Shri and Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
Key Takeaways
- Manoj Kumar passed away at 87 in Mumbai.
- PM Modi shared his condolences and recognized Kumar's impact on national pride.
- Kumar was awarded the Padma Shri and Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
- He was famously known as ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his patriotic films.
- His legacy includes classics like Shaheed and Upkar.
New Delhi, April 4 (NationPress) Beloved actor and director Manoj Kumar has sadly passed away at the age of 87 on Friday at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. He had been facing health challenges for a while and was hospitalized on February 21 when his condition deteriorated.
Expressing condolences, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared his sorrow over the loss of the iconic actor and director through a social media post.
In his message on X, the Prime Minister stated, "I am deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was a true icon of Indian cinema, particularly celebrated for his patriotic spirit, prominently showcased in his films."
PM Modi added that Kumar's contributions sparked a sense of national pride.
"Manoj Ji's creations ignited a spirit of national pride that will continue to inspire future generations. My thoughts are with his family and fans during this sorrowful time. Om Shanti," the Prime Minister expressed.
He also shared nostalgic images from their meeting years ago.
The distinguished actor was honored with the Padma Shri award in 1992 for his significant contributions to Bollywood.
His legacy was further cemented when he received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015.
Known affectionately as ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his patriotic films, he left an indelible mark with classics such as Shaheed, Hariyali Aur Raasta, Woh Kaun Thi, Himalaya Ki God Mein, Do Badan, Patthar Ke Sanam, Neel Kamal, Kranti, Upkar, and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, among many others that are celebrated as exceptional pieces of cinema.
Born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Amritsar, Punjab, Manoj Kumar established a prominent career in Bollywood.
In addition to the Padma Shri and Dadasaheb Phalke Award, his remarkable contributions to Indian cinema garnered him numerous prestigious accolades, including a National Film Award and seven Filmfare Awards across various categories.