The popular actor and filmmaker known for his works including Shaheed, Upkar, and Purab aur Paschim passed away at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital aged 87 years. The legendary filmmaker was awarded the Dada Saheb Phalke award in 2015, giving for exemplary contribution to Hindi cinema.
Kumar was a popular name in Hindi cinema and gave some of the most-watched classics to the Hindi-speaking audience. He was referred to as “Bharat Kumar” because of his contribution to the patriotic film genre. His other works include Himalaya ki god me, Woh Kaun Thi, Do Badan, Neel Kamal, and Kranti. Everyone on social media has shared a tribute to the deceased actor.
Narendra Modi shared some old pictures of the actor on social media and wrote, “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 continue to inspire generations. My thoughts are with his family and admirers 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, 2025Kumar was born in present-day Pakistan and his name at birth was Harikrishan Giri Goswami. He had no plans of becoming a director but he recalled that while shooting Shaheed he was forced to direct and from there his journey as a filmmaker began. In an interview with Rediff, he further stated that when Lal Bahadur Shastri gave the popular slogan of “Jai Jawan, jai Kisan” he was inspired to make “Upkar”.
Actor Akshay Kumar also shared his condolences for the legendary actor who declared him as his successor. The actor talked about the role of the late Manoj Kumar in his life and the way he invokes the feeling of patriotism and love for the country in his films.
Kumar was so filled with energy about his films that he sold his house to make “Upkar.” Instilling the fervour of “Desh Bhakti” the actor passed away after a prolonged illness in the Mumbai-based hospital. He passes away from a cardiac arrest caused by myocardial infarction, a form of heart attack. The report on his death also claims that he was suffering from decompensated liver cirrhosis which led to his worsened condition. Actors including Amitabh Bachchan, and Zeenat Aman showed condolence and remembered the great actor’s time in Hindi cinema.
