The Nation’s Hero Takes Final Bow: Remembering Manoj Kumar (1937–2025)
More than just a star, Manoj Kumar came to symbolise patriotic cinema in India. His distinctive gesture—partially covering his face with his hand—became iconic.
Farewell to Bharat Kumar: Legendary Actor Manoj Kumar Passes Away at 87
On 4 April 2025, the Indian film industry bid farewell to one of its most iconic figures. Veteran actor-filmmaker Manoj Kumar, affectionately known as “Bharat Kumar,” passed away at the age of 87 at Kokilaben Hospital in Mumbai. He suffered a severe cardiac arrest, medically referred to as cardiogenic shock caused by acute myocardial infarction. His death marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, where his patriotic films not only entertained but also instilled a deep sense of national pride.
Early Life and Background
Born Harikrishna Giri Goswami on 24 July 1937 in Abbottabad, British India (now in Pakistan), Manoj Kumar experienced the upheaval of Partition at a young age. His family relocated to Delhi as refugees and eventually settled in Old Rajendra Nagar. The son of H.L. Goswami and Krishna Kumari Goswami, he grew up alongside siblings Rajiv and Neelam Goswami. He pursued higher education at Hindu College, University of Delhi, before embarking on his cinematic journey.
Family Life
Manoj Kumar married Shashi Goswami, who later played a key role in his filmmaking career as an associate producer. The couple had two sons, Vishal and Kunal Goswami. Kunal followed in his father’s footsteps and appeared in Kumar’s magnum opus Kranti (1981).
Film Career and Rise to Stardom
Kumar made his debut with Fashion (1957), but his breakthrough came with Kaanch Ki Gudiya (1961). Early successes included Hariyali Aur Rasta (1962) and the suspenseful Woh Kaun Thi? (1964). However, it was his stirring portrayal of revolutionary martyr Bhagat Singh in Shaheed (1965) that truly established him as a patriotic icon.
His directorial debut Upkar (1967), inspired by Lal Bahadur Shastri’s slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan,” became a landmark in Indian cinema. He continued to direct and star in influential films such as Purab Aur Paschim (1970), Roti Kapada Aur Makaan (1974), and the grand historical drama Kranti (1981), one of the highest-grossing Indian films of its time.
Awards and Recognition
Over the decades, Manoj Kumar received numerous accolades:
Padma Shri in 1992 for his contribution to Indian cinema
Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015 for lifetime achievement
National Film Award for Upkar
Seven Filmfare Awards across multiple categories
Condolences Pour In
Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his heartfelt condolences, sharing nostalgic photographs of his meetings with the actor. He praised Kumar as a cinematic icon whose patriotic spirit resonated deeply through his films. Modi noted that Manoj Kumar’s body of work would continue to inspire future generations and extended his sympathies to the actor’s family and admirers.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah
Home Minister Amit Shah also paid tribute to Kumar’s lasting legacy. He acknowledged the actor’s profound influence on Indian cinema and the patriotic sentiment his films evoked. Shah extended his condolences to Kumar’s family and lauded his monumental contribution to the nation’s cultural fabric.
A Personal Memory
As a schoolboy, I vividly recall watching Upkar (1967) and being profoundly moved by its patriotic message. The song Mere Desh Ki Dharti became an anthem of national pride, still resonant at public events and celebrations. Lalkar (1972) too stood out for its musical richness, even though it wasn’t directed by Kumar.
Though I missed out on Purab Aur Paschim (1970), I did manage to watch Kranti (1981). Admittedly, I found its length a bit trying, but the film’s cinematic brilliance—the elaborate sets, stirring dialogues, and powerful performances—was undeniable.
Legacy of a Patriot
More than just a star, Manoj Kumar came to symbolise patriotic cinema in India. His distinctive gesture—partially covering his face with his hand—became iconic. Through films like Shaheed and Kranti, he championed the nation’s spirit and cultural values on screen.
As we say goodbye to Bharat Kumar, we remember not only a beloved actor but a national treasure. His legacy will live on through his films, which continue to inspire pride and love for the motherland.
Here is a list of ten romantic songs of Manoj Kumar, featuring both solos and duets:
"Chand Si Mehbooba Ho Meri" – Himalay Ki God Mein (1965)
A beautiful solo by Mukesh with music by Kalyanji-Anandji."Patthar Ke Sanam Tujhe Humne" – Patthar Ke Sanam (1967)
Sung by Mohammed Rafi, this duet is a timeless romantic melody."Koi Jab Tumhara Hriday Tod De" – Purab Aur Paschim (1970)
A soulful duet by Mukesh and Lata Mangeshkar, showcasing heartbreak and longing."Ek Pyar Ka Nagma Hai" – Shor (1972)
This iconic duet by Mukesh and Lata Mangeshkar is a poetic celebration of love and life."Main To Ek Khwab Hoon" – Himalay Ki God Mein (1965)
A dreamy solo by Mukesh, capturing the essence of romantic imagination."Mehboob Mere Mehboob Mere" – Patthar Ke Sanam (1967)
A duet by Mukesh and Lata Mangeshkar, filled with tender emotions."Tauba Yeh Matwali Chaal" – Patthar Ke Sanam (1967)
Sung by Mohammed Rafi, this playful romantic number is unforgettable."Teri Yaad Dil Se Bhulane Chala Hoon" – Hariyali Aur Rasta (1962)
A melancholic solo by Mukesh, depicting the pain of lost love."Zindagi Ki Na Toote Ladi" – Kranti (1981)
A duet by Lata Mangeshkar and Nitin Mukesh, expressing hope and resilience in love."Haye Haye Yeh Majboori" – Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974)
Sung by Lata Mangeshkar, this playful yet romantic song remains a fan favorite.
These songs highlight Manoj Kumar's versatility in romantic roles and his ability to connect emotionally with audiences through music.
I remember as a young child of some 9 years of age, the impact his film "Shaheed" left on us. I was 9 years when Kranti was released, and entire family liked it. I love films he made and directed, Purab aur Paschim, Upkar, Kranti are all time great, so is Shor. He did fantastic job in other films like Patthar ke Sanam, Hariyali Aur Raasta, Dus Numbri, Gumnaam, Woh Kaun Thhi. He was a big name, made big films, collaborated with big artists like Dilip Kumar, Amitabh, Shashi Kapur, hired best musicians - Laxmikant Pyarelal, had best singers - Mohammed Rafi and Mukesh, best lyricists - Santosh Anand and himself.
An era is over. I wish this and future generations know him as someone who inculcated a pride for our nation and civilization in the hearts of masses.
Jai Hind
The news of Manoj Kumar’s passing instantly transported me back to my middle school days, when Upkar turned me into a lifelong admirer. I vividly remember buying Screen, the weekly film magazine (is it still around?), and devouring every detail about him and Upkar. I still recall that dialogues were by Abram Alvi and it celebrated golden jubilee all over India . Manoj Kumar’s unique style of acting stood apart.
While Upkar remains his magnum opus, his performances in Do Badan, Aadmi (alongside Dilip Kumar), Patthar Ke Sanam, Anita, and Woh Kaun Thi? were equally remarkable. He brought sincerity and grace to every role, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
His passing truly marks the end of an era.
P.S. It’s worth recalling that Dharmender, his contemporary, might have left Bombay in frustration during his early days, had Manoj Kumar not encouraged him to stay—an act of camaraderie that perhaps changed the course of Indian film history.