18 hours ago
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Veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, revered for his patriotic films and fondly known as 'Bharat Kumar,' passed away at the age of 87 on Friday.
Following the news of his demise, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, calling Kumar an "icon of Indian cinema". Sharing throwback photos of their time together on his official social media handle, the PM paid tribute, posting an old photograph of himself seated with Kumar at a rally, alongside a more recent image of their meeting. In his heartfelt message, he 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. 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."
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit confirmed reports of the veteran actor's demise. In a video message posted on ANI, he expressed his grief saying, "Sad to inform you all that legendary Dada Saheb Phalke Award winner, our inspiration, doyen of Indian film industry, Shri Manoj Kumarji is no more. He breathed his last at Kokilaben Hospital, Andheri, after not being well for a very, very long time. It's a great loss to the industry, Manojji will really miss you."
He added, "We all kept on meeting him quite occasionally. He was always full of life, he was always happy, and the entire industry will miss him. A great soul like him, a great maker like him, will never be there in our industry. Goodbye Manojji, goodbye."
Kumar, best known for his contributions to Indian cinema through films like Shaheed (1965), Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974), left an indelible mark with his patriotic storytelling.
Tributes have been pouring in from the film industry and political circles, honouring the legacy of the Dadasaheb Phalke Award-winning legend.
English (US)