Veteran Bollywood Actor Manoj Kumar Passes Away at 87 in Mumbai

Renowned actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, affectionately known as ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his patriotic roles, passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai. He breathed his last at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital at 4:03 am on Friday due to cardiogenic shock resulting from an acute myocardial infarction. Reports indicate that he had been battling decompensated liver cirrhosis in recent months, which contributed to his declining health.

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Born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad, British India (now in Pakistan), Manoj Kumar’s family moved to Delhi during the Partition. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree from Hindu College before entering the film industry. Fashion (1957) was his debut picture; yet, his legendary status in Indian film came from his roles in heroic films such as Shaheed (1965), Upkar ( 1967), and Purab Aur Paschim (1970).

Over his long and outstanding career, Manoj Kumar received many accolades including the Padma Shri in 1992 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015. He worked behind the camera as much as front-stage on movies. He oversaw and created several patriotic films with a social conscience.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on social media expressing his grief.  “He was an icon of Indian cinema, remembered for his patriotic zeal reflected in his films. Manoj Ji’s works ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations.” ​

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. Manoj Ji’s works ignited a spirit of national pride and will… pic.twitter.com/f8pYqOxol3

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025

Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit also mourned the loss, saying, “It’s a great loss to the industry. Manoj Ji was always full of life. We will really miss him.” ​

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Manoj Kumar’s mortal remains will be kept at his Juhu residence from Friday afternoon for industry colleagues and fans to pay their final respects. The cremation is scheduled to take place on Saturday. ​

His passing marks the end of an era in Bollywood, but his films and the patriotic passion he stirred up in viewers will live on. ​