Bollywood Icon Manoj Kumar Passes Away at 87

Bollywood legend and actor Manoj Kumar passed away on Friday, April 4, 2025, in Mumbai at the age of 87 after a prolonged illness.

According to Indian media reports, his death occurred at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai due to complications related to heart issues. He had been suffering from health problems for an extended period. According to the hospital’s medical certificate, liver failure was cited as the secondary cause of his death.

Manoj Kumar’s son, Kunal Goswami, informed Indian media that his father had been battling health issues for a long time. He expressed gratitude, saying, “We are thankful to God that he peacefully bid farewell to this world.” His final rites will be performed on Sunday at the Pawan Hans crematorium.

Manoj Kumar was born on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (then part of undivided India and now located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan). His birth name was Hari Krishnan Goswami. He began his career in Bollywood with the film Fashion in 1957 and gained fame for his role in the movie Kanch Ki Gudiya in 1961.

Manoj Kumar is particularly remembered for his patriotic films such as Shaheed (1965), Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Kranti (1981), which earned him the title of “Bharat Kumar” (Son of India). His films not only gave new direction to Indian cinema but also played a significant role in igniting national pride. The film Shor (1972), which he directed, also became highly popular.

In recognition of his unparalleled contributions to Indian cinema, Manoj Kumar was honored with the Padma Shri in 1992 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015. He once remarked, “Cinema is not just for entertainment; it is a means to shape the character of a nation.”

Following the news of his passing, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow on social media. Modi wrote, “Manoj Kumar ji was an icon of Indian cinema, especially remembered for his patriotic fervor. His films ignited a sense of national pride and determination, inspiring generations.”

The demise of Manoj Kumar has left a significant void in the Indian film industry, and his contributions to the world of cinema will always be remembered.