Manoj Kumar Passes Away at 87, Bollywood Bids Farewell
Famed Actor Manoj Kumar Dies at 87
Popular Bollywood actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar passed away at the age of 87. The iconic actor died at Kokkilaben Dhirubha Ambani hospital in Mumbai at 4:03 AM on February 21, 2025. His death marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. He left behind an impact of motivational cinema that glorified and celebrated national honor.
Manoj Kumar’s final Journey
Manoj Kumar’s body will be kept in his Juhu residence from Friday afternoon to give fans and colleagues the last opportunity to pay their respects. The cremation is likely to take place on Saturday. Medical records state that the veteran actor died from a cardiogenic shock due to acute myocardial infarction, or a severe heart attack, along with decompensated liver cirrhosis, which has contributed to the actor’s deteriorating health over the last several months.
Industry Mourns the Loss
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit expressed his deep grief over the demise of Manoj Kumar. He labeled him as the “lion of the Indian film industry.” In an interview, he said, “It is a huge loss to the industry.” Manoj Ji, we will miss you. He was always very lively, always happy. The entire industry will miss him. A phenomenal spirit and iconic director like him, you cannot replace.
The Life and Influence of Manoj Kumar
Manoj Kumar was born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Amritsar, Punjab. He became one of the most popular actors and directors in Bollywood. Manoj Kumar played pivotal roles in films championing nationalism (e.g., Shaheed, Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, Kranti). These roles helped solidify his moniker ‘Bharat Kumar.’ Kumar’s illustrious contributions to Indian cinema also include feature filmmaking through his critically celebrated and respected body of work that continues to resonate with generations of viewers.
Honors and Recognition
Manoj Kumar’s contribution to Indian cinema has given him congratulations and honorary recognitions – such as the following: Padma Shri (1992) – one of the highest civilian recognitions in India. Dadasaheb Phalke Awards (2015) – the highest honor in Indian cinema. Receiving the National Film Award and 7 Filmfare Awards for his distinguished work in acting and directing. His films were not just entertaining but they instilled a patriotic fervor in their audience’s spirits and cemented his status as a true icon of national cinema.
A Lasting Impact on Bollywood
With the bollywood news latest of Manoj kumar, there were many tributes that honor his life from admirers, filmmakers, actors that all acknowledge his mark in Indian cinema. His films will continue to inspire small and large filmmakers for generations to come, thus his impact and place in Indian cinema history will never fade. As we try to come to terms with the loss of this beloved icon, we’ll never forget his mark on Bollywood cinema and on the very essence of patriotism. Goodbye, Manoj Kumar.
