Manoj Kumar/ Indian Cinema Icon © Rohit Singh Negi Reshmi Nair

Manoj Kumar (1937–2025)

On April 4, 2025, Indian cinema lost one of its most iconic figures, Manoj Kumar, who passed away at the age of 87 at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. Known affectionately as "Bharat Kumar" for his unwavering dedication to patriotic themes, Manoj Kumar was a legendary actor, director, screenwriter & lyricist whose work left an indelible mark on Hindi cinema. Born Harikrishan Giri Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), he rose from humble beginnings to become a symbol of national pride through his films. His career, spanning over four decades, earned him a National Film Award, seven Filmfare Awards, the Padma Shri in 1992, and the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015.

Manoj Kumar’s cinematic journey began with his debut in Fashion (1957), but it was his portrayal of freedom fighter Bhagat Singh in Shaheed (1965) that catapulted him to stardom. His films often blended powerful storytelling with a deep sense of patriotism, resonating with audiences across generations. Beyond acting, he excelled as a director, delivering classics that celebrated India’s spirit and values. Despite battling prolonged illness, including cardiogenic shock and liver cirrhosis in his final months, Kumar’s legacy as a pioneer of patriotic cinema endures. He is survived by his family, including his son Kunal Goswami, and a nation of admirers mourning the end of an era.

I had the pleasure to interact with Manoj Kumar ji during our Tourism Revival Campaign of Kashmir with My Film “Valley of Legends and Campaign “The Return of The Legends.” Manoj Kumar ji was a fascinating man with countless stories to tell and advice …..a multi-talented persona he remained a story teller right till the end….

My Top 5 Films of Manoj Kumar-

Upkar (1967)

Directed and starring Manoj Kumar, this film celebrates the contributions of farmers and soldiers, inspired by the slogan "Jai Jawan Jai Kisan." It won him a National Film Award and remains a timeless ode to rural India.

Shaheed (1965)

Kumar’s portrayal of revolutionary Bhagat Singh in this biographical drama earned him widespread acclaim, cementing his status as a patriotic icon.

Purab Aur Paschim (1970)

A cultural exploration of Indian values versus Western influence, this film, directed and led by Kumar, features the iconic song "Bharat Ka Rehnewala Hoon."

Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974)

A socially relevant drama addressing life’s basic needs, this film showcased Kumar’s versatility as an actor, writer, and director, with a stellar ensemble cast.

Kranti (1981)

A grand historical epic about India’s fight against British rule, this star-studded film, directed by Kumar, remains a benchmark for patriotic storytelling.

Manoj Kumar’s passing marks the end of a golden chapter in Bollywood, but his films will continue to inspire pride and patriotism for years to come. Rest in peace, Bharat Kumar. Om Shanti.

From Instagram 👇 

#ManojKumar⭐

Indian Cinema Icon 🎬

The Iconic Manoj Kumar ji told me this at a dinner in #Mumbai in 2012.....

"Rohit do you know why I had such a long innings in Cinema? 

Because of my "two thumbs" he said. I used them to push away any semblance of gluttony on a plate & my diet always included raw tomatoes."

A very fine gentleman. You will be missed Sir.....

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© Rohit Singh Negi Reshmi Nair