Manoj Kumar, the distinguished Indian actor and filmmaker recognized for his fervent nationalism in cinema, passed away at the age of 87 on April 4 in Mumbai. His death was attributed to a heart attack resulting from cardiogenic shock.

Early Life and Education

Born as Harikrishan Goswami in Abbottabad, a region now in Pakistan, Kumar’s family relocated to Delhi following the Partition of India. He pursued his education at Hindu College, affiliated with Delhi University, which paved the way for his entry into the film industry during the late 1950s.

Career Breakthrough and Contributions

Kumar’s cinematic journey began in earnest with appearances in films like Kaanch Ki Gudiya (1961) and Woh Kaun Thi? (1964). However, it was his portrayal of the revolutionary Bhagat Singh in Shaheed (1965) that truly established him as a serious actor. The defining moment of his career came with the release of Upkar (1967), a film he both directed and starred in, which was inspired by Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri’s slogan “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan”—meaning “Hail the Soldier, Hail the Farmer.” This film cemented his status as the face of patriotic cinema in India.

Enduring Legacy in Cinema

Kumar earned the nickname “Bharat Kumar” for his resolute focus on patriotic themes throughout his career. The 1970s saw him direct and star in several notable films—including Purab Aur Paschim (1970), Shor (1972), and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974)—which became significant cultural landmarks, blending mainstream storytelling with pressing social commentary.

His ambitious project, Kranti (1981), depicted the Indian freedom struggle and became one of the highest-grossing films of the decade.

Acknowledgements and Awards

Throughout his illustrious career, Kumar received numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri in 1992, India’s fourth-highest civilian honor, and the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999. The prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, regarded as the highest film honor in India, was bestowed upon him in 2015.

Tributes and Remembrance

Following his passing, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media to express his condolences, stating, “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 continue to inspire generations. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.”