Manoj Kumar, lovingly referred to as ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his patriotic cinematic legacy, has bid farewell at the age of 87 in Mumbai due to age-related issues. Renowned for his significant contributions to Hindi cinema, Kumar was not only an actor but a multifaceted artist – a filmmaker, lyricist and editor. His iconic journey began with a 1957 debut in ‘Fashion Brand’, later marked by a major breakthrough in the 1961 film ‘Kaanch Ki Gudiya’. Kumar’s legacy thrives in his timeless movies such as ‘Purab Aur Pachhim’, ‘Upkar’ and ‘Kranti’. Awarded the Padma Shri and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, he played a vital role in elevating the standards of Bollywood and telling deeply rooted Indian stories. His departure leaves behind a grieving industry, his beloved wife Shashi Goswami and sons Vishal and Kunal. As fans honor his remarkable contributions across platforms, his final farewell is set for Saturday, April 5th 2025, at 11 am at Pawan Hans near Nanavati Hospital Vile Parle. Bollywood celebrities Shatrughan Sinha, Arun Irani, Aamir Khan, Ajay Devgn and many more paid tributes to the legend. They fondly remembered the actor-director as an epitome of filmmaking.
Shatrughan Sinha:
Heartfelt condolences for the son of the soil, pride of film industry, Maharashtra/India, a ‘Bharat Ratna’ in true sense, our own ‘Bharat’, Manoj Kumar is no more. He worked in enormous movies but he will always rule our hearts with his roles in ‘Shaheed’, ‘Upkar’, ‘Purab Aur Pachhim’, ‘Roti Kapada Aur Makaan’, ‘Kranti’, ‘Shor’ and ‘Shirdi Ke Sai Baba’, his immortal films, to name a few. The songs of these films and many others are gems to cherish for years to come. A true patriot, which he portrayed beautifully in his films. Prayers for strength to his family, friends, fans and admirers in these difficult times. May his soul rest in eternal peace. Om Shanti.
Poonam Dhillon:
We have all grown up seeing his movies. I’m grateful to have been able to work in one of his productions. He was a legend. I think he was one of the finest original directors. His contribution to the industry is great. He was extremely precious to the industry – how to make movies, his songs, everything about his movies is something to learn from. He was a text-book in filmmaking.
Aruna Irani:
He was my guru. I did my first film, ‘Upkar’, with him, and he was a true gentleman – a great actor, director and producer. His wife is also a wonderful person, and we received special care during the filming of his movies. I was part of almost all his movies. If he did ten films, I was in at least nine of them.
Ajay Devgn:
Manoj Kumarji was not just a cinematic icon – he was a personal milestone in my family’s journey. He gave my father, Veeru Devgan, his very first break as an action director in ‘Roti Kapada Aur Makaan’. From there, their collaboration continued all the way to ‘Kranti,’ creating moments that are now part of Indian cinema’s golden history.
Aamir Khan:
Manoj Kumar was not just an actor and a filmmaker, he was an institution. I have learnt so much watching his films. His films were often based on important social themes which brought him really close to the common man. My heartfelt condolences to his family.
Manoj Bajpayee:
With the loss of Manoj Kumar saab, we bid farewell to a pillar of Hindi cinema. His art celebrated the spirit of India like no other. Deepest condolences to his family and countless admirers.
Salman Khan:
Manoj Kumarji… a true legend. Thank you for the unforgettable films and memories…
