Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 5 – The mortal remains of legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar were taken for his final rites today, April 5, 2025, with full state honours, as India paid its last respects to a cinematic icon who redefined patriotism on screen.
The coffin of the Padma Shri awardee was draped in the Indian tricolour, a fitting tribute to a man whose very name became synonymous with national pride. Adorned with flowers and garlands in the colours of the flag, the ambulance carrying his body marked the final journey of a legend.
Family, close friends, and admirers gathered at his Mumbai residence to bid their emotional farewell. Among those present was his wife and prominent personalities such as Dr. Jitender Singh Shunty, a Padma Shri awardee and President of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Sewa Dal.
Dr. Shunty, expressed deep admiration for the late actor:
“The message he gave through his movies—Jai Jawan Jai Kisan, Shaheed-e-Azam, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, Shor—no one can forget them. Such people don’t die; they are immortal. I’ve been a fan since childhood.”
Reflecting on their personal bond, he added, “It was like a father-son and friend relationship. During COVID, he gave me courage. He told me, ‘Shunty, don’t be afraid. Serve bravely like Bhagat Singh. The world will remember.’”
Born as Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Manoj Kumar rose to become one of the most celebrated actors in Indian cinema, earning the endearing title of “Bharat Kumar” for his portrayal of deeply patriotic characters.
His landmark films—including Shaheed (1965), Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974)—not only entertained but also instilled a deep sense of national pride among audiences. As a filmmaker, his debut directorial venture Upkar won the National Film Award for Second Best Feature Film.
In recognition of his contributions, Kumar was awarded the Padma Shri in 1992 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015, cementing his legacy in the annals of Indian cinema.
His death on April 4, 2025, at the age of 87, has left a deep void across the nation. Tributes have poured in from all corners, including from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who called him an “icon of Indian cinema,” praising his ability to inspire national pride through his films.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, and other political and cultural leaders also expressed their grief, honoring Manoj Kumar’s unparalleled impact on India’s cinematic and cultural landscape.