Manoj Kumar: A Patriotic Icon of Indian Cinema Passes Away at 87

Manoj Kumar, cherished for his impactful patriotic films, died at 87 in Mumbai, mourned by many in the industry and fans worldwide.

Veteran Bollywood actor and director Manoj Kumar has sadly passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai, succumbing to "age-related health issues," according to Dr. Santosh Shetty from Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, where he was being treated. His son, Kunal Goswami, acknowledged that Kumar had been facing persistent health challenges for a considerable time.

Renowned for his iconic patriotic films, Kumar gained tremendous popularity during the 1960s and 1970s, which played a significant role in shaping his career. Born Harikrishan Goswami in 1937 in Punjab, he made a lasting impact on the Hindi film landscape with titles such as "Shaheed," "Roti Kapada Aur Makaan," and "Kranti." His films, imbued with patriotic themes, resonated deeply with audiences across India.

Kumar's artistic contributions were recognized with numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri, which is India's fourth highest civilian award. His exceptional work also earned him the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest honor in Indian cinema.

In the wake of his passing, tributes have flooded social media, with many recalling the indelible mark he left on the film industry. Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored him as an "icon of Indian cinema," noting that his works fostered a sense of national pride that would resonate for generations to come. Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit described Kumar's death as a "great loss" to the industry, emphasizing that he would be greatly missed by all in the film community.