Manoj Kumar: The Patriotic Film Icon of Bollywood Passes Away at 87

Kumar, renowned for impactful patriotic films primarily in the 60s and 70s, has left a legacy that will endure within Indian cinema.

Veteran Bollywood actor and director Manoj Kumar has passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai. According to Dr. Santosh Shetty from Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Kumar succumbed to age-related health issues after a prolonged battle with various health complications, as reported by his son, Kunal Goswami, to ANI news agency.

Born as Harikrishan Goswami in Punjab in 1937, Kumar rose to fame during the 1960s and 1970s and became a household name in the Hindi film industry. He dedicated his career to creating films that showcased the spirit of patriotism, with notable works including "Shaheed," "Roti Kapada Aur Makaan," and "Kranti." Kumar's films resonated deeply with the Indian public, reflecting themes of national pride.

His remarkable contributions to cinema earned him several prestigious accolades, including the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honors, as well as the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the pinnacle of cinematic recognition in the country.

In the wake of his passing, tributes have flooded in on social media, highlighting the impact of his work. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to him as an "icon of Indian cinema," noting that Kumar’s creations instilled a sense of national pride that has inspired countless generations. Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit also expressed his sorrow over Kumar's death, emphasizing that it represents an immense loss to the film industry as a whole, which will dearly miss his presence and contributions.