Veteran Bollywood Star Manoj Kumar Passes Away at 87

The Indian film industry mourns the loss of Manoj Kumar, an icon celebrated for his patriotic films. His substantial contributions to Bollywood earned him numerous accolades, including prestigious national awards.

Veteran Bollywood actor and director Manoj Kumar has passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai, succumbing to age-related health issues, as confirmed by Dr. Santosh Shetty from Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, where he had been receiving care. Kunal Goswami, Kumar's son, shared that the legendary actor had been facing health challenges for an extended period.

Born as Harikrishan Goswami in 1937 in Punjab, Kumar gained fame during the 1960s and 1970s with a distinct style that celebrated India's patriotism through film. He became renowned for his leading roles in iconic movies like "Shaheed," "Roti Kapada Aur Makaan," and "Kranti." His works, marked by themes of national pride, resonated deeply with Indian audiences and contributed to his status as a celebrated figure in Indian cinema.

Throughout his illustrious career, Kumar received several accolades, such as the Padma Shri, India's fourth highest civilian award, and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, which is the nation's highest honor in cinema. His impact on the film industry has prompted an outpouring of tributes on social media, with many expressing their sorrow at his passing.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged Kumar's legacy, praising him as an "icon of Indian cinema" and highlighting that his films sparked a national pride that will inspire future generations. Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit expressed that his death represents a significant loss for the film industry, indicating the void left by the passing of such a revered figure.