Manoj Kumar, the veteran Indian actor with patriotic films like Purab Aur Paschim and Kranti to his credit, breathed his last in Mumbai, aged 87. Admitted to Kokilaben Dhirubai Ambani Hospital for some heart-related complications, he succumbed on Friday at around 3:30 am. The medical certificate issued by the hospital stated, among other things, decompensated liver cirrhosis as a secondary cause of death.
An Icon of Cinema
Manoj Kumar, born Harikirshan Goswami in 1937 in Abbottabad, British India (in present-day Pakistan), was an iconic personality of Indian cinema. He began in Bollywood in 1957 with Fashion, but Kanch Ki Gudiya (1961) made him famous. In 1965, the thriller Gumnaam emerged as one of the highest-grossing films, earning Rs 2.6 crores in box-office collections.
However, it was Shaheed (1965), a biographical film on the freedom fighter Bhagat Singh, that really established him as an actor of outstanding nationalistic appeal. His subsequent Upkaar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Kranti (1981) consolidated his nickname ‘Bharat Kumar’, which he earned for his dedication to nationalist themes in cinema. He even directed and starred in Shor (1972), proving his skills in directing.
In 1975, Kumar won the Best Director award at the Filmfare Awards for Roti Kapada Aur Makaan. Throughout his illustrious career, he received many coveted awards, which include the Padma Shri in 1992, the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999, and the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015 for contributions to Indian cinema.
National Mourning for a Cinematic Icon
His death has caused national mourning, with tributes from politicians, Bollywood stars, and citizens. In his heartfelt tribute, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on social media, ‘He was an icon of Indian cinema, remembered for his patriotic zeal, which resonated in his films. Manoj Ji’s works ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.”
Union Minister Rajnath Singh said that Mr Kumar was “a versatile actor who will always be recalled as one who made films full of patriotism”. He added, “Popularly known as ‘Bharat Kumar’, his unforgettable performances in films like Upkaar and Purab Aur Paschim enriched our culture and endeared him to people across generations. His cinematic legacy will live on. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti.”
Filmmaker Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri paid tribute, stating, “Patriots and artists like him never die. His films will forever remind us of his undying love for the nation.”
Family’s Statement and Funeral Arrangements
Manoj Kumar son, Kunal Goswami, shared that the veteran actor had been battling health issues for a long time but remained content. “It’s the grace of God that he bid adieu to this world peacefully. “Tomorrow morning, he will be cremated,” the news is being reported by ANI.
Mr Kumar was not just a film actor but also a cultural idol, whose films echoed with the spirit of patriotism in India. In 2004, he became a member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and joined political activities. His contributions to Indian cinema are unparalleled with the portrayal of nationalistic themes.
While the country weeps for the great late actor, his time-defying films stand immortal and continue to inspire future generations. Source NDTV
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