Manoj Kumar Passes Away at 87: Bollywood Icon and Patriotic Cinema Legend Dies of Heart Attack In Mumbai
Manoj Kumar Passes Away at 87: Bollywood Icon and Patriotic Cinema Legend Dies of Heart Attack In Mumbai
Veteran Bollywood actor and director Manoj Kumar, celebrated for his iconic patriotic films, passed away early Friday morning at the age of 87. According to medical reports, the legendary star died due to cardiogenic shock caused by an acute myocardial infarction, commonly known as a severe heart attack.
Kumar, whose real name was Harikrishan Goswami, breathed his last at 4:03 am at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. He had been admitted on February 21, 2025, as his health deteriorated. The reports also revealed he was battling decompensated liver cirrhosis in recent months.
Fondly known as ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his contributions to patriotic cinema, Manoj Kumar’s mortal remains will be kept at his Juhu residence on Friday afternoon to allow colleagues, fans, and loved ones to pay their last respects. Cremation is expected to take place on Saturday.
Film Industry Mourns a Legend
Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit expressed deep sorrow, stating, “Sad to inform you all that the legendary Dadasaheb Phalke award winner, our inspiration and the ‘lion’ of the Indian film industry, Manoj Kumar ji is no more. It is a great loss to the industry. He was always full of life and positivity. We will truly miss him.”
A Legacy of Patriotism in Indian Cinema
Born on July 24, 1937, in Amritsar, Punjab, Manoj Kumar emerged as a pioneer of socially driven and patriotic storytelling in Bollywood. He made an indelible mark with films such as Shaheed, Upkar, and Purab Aur Paschim, which celebrated national pride and unity.
As both actor and director, his cinematic contributions earned him a National Film Award and seven Filmfare Awards across multiple categories. In 1992, he was honoured with the Padma Shri by the Government of India, followed by the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015 — the highest accolade in Indian cinema.
The news of his passing has left the film fraternity and fans in mourning, with tributes pouring in from across the nation. Manoj Kumar’s legacy as a cultural icon and champion of patriotic cinema will continue to inspire generations.
