Indian actor and director Manoj Kumar passed away on Friday, April 4, at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. He was 87. He was known for his patriotic films and was nicknamed 'Bharat Kumar.' The people of the country recognize him from songs like "Mere Desh Ki Dharti Sone Ugel" and "Bharat Ki Baat Sunata Hux". His nickname "Bharat Kumar" is associated with his patriotic roles and the character he played in the film "Upkar".
The award-winning veteran Bollywood actor is remembered for his films, such as Hariyali Aur Raasta, Woh Kaun Thi, Himalaya Ki God Mein, Do Badan, Upkar, Patthar Ke Sanam, Neel Kamal, Purab Aur Paschim, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, and Kranti. For his contributions to Indian cinema, the actor won the Padma Shri award in 1992 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015.
On the demise of Indian actor and film director Manoj Kumar, filmmaker Ashoke Pandit said, "The legendary Dadasaheb Phalke award winner, our inspiration and the 'lion' of the Indian film industry, Manoj Kumar Ji is no more...It is a great loss to the industry and the entire industry will miss him."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also mourned the death of veteran Bollywood actor in a social media post, said that he was deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary actor and filmmaker.
The Prime Minister, in a post on X, 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.”
PM Modi further said that his works ignited a spirit of national pride. “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,” the PM further said. PM Modi also shared pictures of the veteran actor when they had met years ago. The veteran actor received the Padma Shri in 1992 for his contributions to Bollywood. His legacy was further solidified when he was honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015.