Veteran Bollywood actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, renowned for his iconic roles in films such as Purab Aur Paschim and Kranti, has passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai.
He died on Friday at 3:30 am due to heart complications, with decompensated liver cirrhosis being the secondary cause, as confirmed by the medical certificate from Kokilaben Dhirubai Ambani Hospital.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Kumar, describing him as a “legendary actor” and a national icon, particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was reflected in his films.
Kumar’s works, which sparked national pride, will continue to inspire future generations, said PM Modi.
Manoj Kumar, born in 1937 in Abbottabad, began his Bollywood career in 1957 and gained recognition with films like Gumnaam (1965) and Shaheed (1965).
He also directed the acclaimed film Shor (1972), and won the Filmfare Award for Best Director in 1975 for Roti Kapada Aur Makaan.
Kumar received several prestigious honours, including the Padma Shri in 1992, the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999, and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015.
His death has left a deep void in the Indian film industry, with tributes pouring in from across the nation. Union Minister Rajnath Singh described him as a “versatile actor” whose films full of patriotism enriched Indian culture.
Kumar’s legacy in the Indian film industry is secure, with his patriotic roles and his contribution to Indian cinema continuing to inspire generations.
