Dawn Images

Renowned Bollywood actor and director Manoj Kumar, fondly known as ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his groundbreaking patriotic films, has passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai due to heart-related complications, reported ANI.

Kumar, born Harikrishan Goswami in 1937 in Abbottabad (part of present-day Pakistan), carved a niche for himself in the Hindi film industry with his patriotic films, including classics like Shaheed, Roti Kapada Aur Makaan, and Kranti.

He went on to star in Hariyali Aur Raasta, Woh Kaun Thi, Himalaya Ki God Mein, Do Badan, Patthar Ke Sanam, and Neel Kamal, cementing his status as a patriot on screen.

Kumar’s contributions to Indian cinema were recognised with several prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honours, and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the nation’s top cinematic accolade.

After his passing, tributes have flooded social media and beyond, with industry peers and national leaders expressing their grief.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Kumar as an “icon of Indian cinema,” noting that “Manoj Ji’s works ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations.”

Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit echoed these sentiments, labeling his death as “a great loss to the film industry.”

Kumar succumbed to “age-related health issues” while receiving treatment at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, according to ANI. The secondary cause of death is decompensated liver cirrhosis, the medical certificate issued by the hospital stated.

Before the 2004 general elections, Kumar officially joined the right-wing Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP).