Veteran Actor and Director Manoj Kumar Passes Away at 87
Veteran Indian actor and director Manoj Kumar passed away at the age of 87. The star breathed his last at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, according to reports by news agency ANI. His son, Kunal Goswami, confirmed the news and said the final rites will be performed tomorrow.
“He has had health-related issues for a long time. It’s the grace of God that he bid adieu to this world peacefully. His cremation will take place tomorrow,” Goswami said.
Kumar, whose real name was Harikishan Giri Goswami, was widely known for his films with strong patriotic themes and was fondly nicknamed “Bharat Kumar” by audiences and peers alike.
The news of his passing has drawn an outpouring of grief from the film industry and political circles. Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit paid tribute, calling Kumar “the lion of the Indian film industry.” In a video statement, Pandit said, “The legendary Dadasaheb Phalke award winner, our inspiration and the ‘lion’ of the Indian film industry, Manoj Kumar Ji is no more… It is a great loss to the industry and the entire nation will miss him.”
Manoj Kumar carved a unique identity in Hindi cinema with iconic films such as Shaheed (1965), Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974). His portrayal of nationalist characters and social reformers earned him widespread admiration and helped shape the cinematic image of patriotism during the post-independence era.
Beyond acting, Kumar was also a gifted director, known for helming memorable titles such as Kranti, Hariyali Aur Raasta, Woh Kaun Thi, Do Badan, and Neel Kamal. His work combined commercial appeal with strong social messaging, leaving a lasting legacy in Indian cinema.
In recognition of his contributions, Kumar was awarded the Padma Shri in 1992 and the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015, India’s highest honour in cinema.
As the industry and fans mourn the loss of a cinematic giant, tributes continue to pour in for a man who not only entertained generations but also stirred national pride through his work. His passing marks the end of an era in Indian filmmaking, but his legacy remains immortal through his timeless films.
The cremation is scheduled to take place in Mumbai on Saturday.
