Prime Minister Modi and Film Celebrities Mourn Hindi Actor Manoj Kumar’s Passing

Veteran Hindi actor Manoj Kumar has passed away at the age of 87 due to health-related issues. Known for his patriotic films, he was warmly called “Bharat Kumar” by fans. His birth name was Harikishan Giri Goswami, and he was born in Abbottabad, now in Pakistan. After partition, his family moved to Delhi.

He adopted the name Manoj Kumar from actor Dilip Kumar’s character in the film “Shabnam” (1949). He began his acting career with the film “Fashion” in 1957 and rose to fame as a leading hero in the 1960s and 1970s. His breakthrough as a hero came with the 1961 film “Kaanch Ki Gudiya”.

Manoj Kumar starred in several hit films like “Aadmi”, “Sajan”, “Purab Aur Paschim”, “Roti Kapda Aur Makaan”, “Kranti”, “Yaadgaar” and “Dus Numbri”. He also directed seven films, including “Upkar”, “Shor”, “Kranti”, and “Clerk”.

He received many honors, including the Padma Shri in 1999 and the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015. His debut directorial film, “Upkar”, won the National Award for Best Film. He is survived by his wife Shashi Goswami and two sons, Kunal and Vishal.

Manoj Kumar had been receiving treatment at Kokilaben Hospital in Mumbai for several months and passed away due to a heart attack. Many celebrities from the film industry and political leaders mourned his loss.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his condolences, saying, “Saddened by the passing of Manoj Kumar. He was a symbol of Indian cinema and will be remembered for his passionate patriotism reflected through his films. His work continues to inspire generations. My thoughts are with his family and admirers.”