Veteran Indian actor, director, and Padma Shri recipient Manoj Kumar has passed away at the age of 87. He breathed his last at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. Known for his patriotic-themed films, he was affectionately called ‘Bharat Kumar’ by fans and the film industry.

Born as Harikrishan Giri Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad, British India (now in Pakistan), Manoj Kumar’s family moved to Delhi following the Partition. His initial years in cinema were spent playing minor roles, but his breakthrough came with the lead role in "Kaanch Ki Gudiya" in 1961. From there, he rose to prominence with films that carried strong nationalistic and social messages.

Manoj Kumar became an icon of Indian patriotism through his performances in movies like "Shaheed" (1965), based on the life of Bhagat Singh. His directorial ventures, including "Upkar" (1967), "Purab Aur Paschim" (1970), "Kranti" (1981), and "Clerk" (1989), were not only box-office successes but also inspired a sense of national pride among viewers. His portrayal of selfless, dedicated citizens in these films earned him the title of ‘Bharat Kumar.’

Over the course of his career, he received several prestigious awards. He won a National Film Award and seven Filmfare Awards. In recognition of his contributions to Indian cinema, he was honored with the Padma Shri in 1992. In 2015, he was bestowed with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest honor in Indian cinema.

His passing has left a deep void in the Indian film industry, with fans and celebrities mourning the loss. Business tycoon Anand Mahindra expressed his grief, recalling how his family never missed any of Manoj Kumar’s films and how his movies shaped an era of patriotic cinema.

Manoj Kumar’s legacy remains embedded in Indian cinema, with his films continuing to inspire generations. His commitment to portraying themes of nationalism and social justice has left an enduring mark, making him one of the most revered figures in Bollywood history.