Veteran actor-filmmaker Manoj Kumar, who earned the sobriquet of “Bharat Kumar for essaying patriotic roles in iconic films 'Upkar', Shaheed, Kranti, Jai Jawan Jai Kisan' and Purab Aur Paschim, died at the Kokilaben Ambani Hospital here in the early hours of Friday, following heart-related complications.
The actor, who had been undergoing treatment at the hospital or age-related ailments for the past several days, developed heart-related complications. The hospitals medical certificate attributed the secondary cause of death to “decompensated liver cirrhosis.”
He was 87 and is survived by his wife, Shashi Goswami, and their two sons, Kunal and Vishal Goswami.
A recipient of a National Award, Padma Shri (1992) and Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2015), seven Filmfare Awards in various categories and the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1999, Manoj Kumar was one of the most successful actors and was known for making films with patriotic themes
Born Harikrishan Giri Goswami on July 24, 1937 in a Punjabi-Hindu Brahmin family from Abbottabad, currently in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region of Pakistan, he adopted Manoj Kumar as his screen name -- inspired by Ashok Kumar and Dilip Kumar.
Sharing old photographs of the veteran actor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on “X”: “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 Jis 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.”
In her condolence message posted on “X” President Droupadi Murmu wrote: Saddened by the demise of legendary actor and film-maker Manoj Kumar Ji. He has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. During his long and distinguished career he came to be known for his patriotic films which promoted a sense of pride in Indias contribution and values. The iconic characters of national heroes, farmers and soldiers he brought to life will remain etched in our collective memory. His cinema will instil national pride and inspire generations to come. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers.
After making a debut in a hardly-noticed film “Fashion” in 1957 and playing small roles in three films in the next three years, Manoj Kumar landed a lead role in “Kaanch Ki Gudiya” (1961). After a few flops, he tasted first major success Vijay Bhatts Hariyali Aur Rasta opposite Mala Sinha. His first super hit was Raj Khoslas mystery thriller Woh Kaun Thi?, success of which was attributed to memorable songs like “Lag Jaa Gale” and “Naina Barse Rimjhim”, both rendered by Lata Mangeskar.
His another thriller, Gumnaam (1965) turned out to be one of the highest-grossing films of the time His another film Shaheed, which explored the life of the freedom fighter Bhagat Singh, brought him name and fame. His roles in patriotic films like Upkaar (1967), Purab Aur Pachhim (1970) and Kranti (1981) helped earn sobriquet as 'Bharat Kumar'. He also directed and acted in Shor (1972).
