'Biggest asset of our fraternity': Akshay Kumar, Madhur Bhandarkar and others pour in tributes for Manoj Kumar

Manoj Kumar

The Indian film industry lost one of its most iconic figures as legendary actor, director, and filmmaker Manoj Kumar passed away at the age of 87. The actor, affectionately known as "Bharat Kumar" for his portrayal of patriotic characters, breathed his last at 4:03 AM on April 4, 2025, at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai.

Soon after his demise, tributes started to pour in on social media. From politicians to film personalities, celebrated individuals took to social media to celebrate the contributions of the late actor to India's art and cinema scene with his patriotic films.

PM Modi mourns demise of Manoj Kumar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi penned a heartfelt note along with some treasured memories of his meet with the veteran star. 'Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, who was particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was also reflected in his films. Manoj Ji's works ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti."

Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar also expressed his condolences over the death of veteran actor, director, saying that the death of Manoj Kumar has marked the end of a great era in Indian cinema.

Pawar, in his condolence message, says that veteran actor Manoj Kumar awakened patriotism in the minds of the people through his films. Through films like 'Upkaar', 'Roti Kapda Aur Makaan', 'Kranti', he powerfully presented the reality of society and loyalty to the country. The patriotism in his acting and direction still resonates in the hearts of the audience. His contribution to Indian cinema is invaluable and his place can never be filled. Manoj Kumar, a recipient of the 'Dadasaheb Phalke' and 'Padma Shri' awards, was an inspiration to many budding artists.

Film personalities pour in tribute

Actor Akshay Kumar credited the late actor for teaching him to love the country. " I grew up learning from him that there's no emotion like love and pride for our country. And if we actors won't take the lead in showing this emotion, who will? Such a fine person, and one of the biggest assets of our fraternity. RIP Manoj Sir. Om Shanti," he wrote on X.

Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar shared adorable pictures of himself posing with the veteran actor and wrote, "I am saddened by the passing of the legendary actor & filmmaker, Manoj Kumar Sir, I had the privilege of interacting with him at many occasions , and he was truly an icon of Indian cinema. His storytelling & song picturizations in his films inspired national pride and will resonate for generations. 🙏My deepest condolences to his family members & admirers. #OmShanti"

Hansal Mehta took to social media to pay tribute to the actor and filmmaker. "Manoj Kumar used to be a patient of my grandfather, and I have blurry memories of seeing him at the clinic. Later, like Ashok Kumar, he began practicing Homeopathy. When I met him once, he said warmly, "Doctor saab ka pota director ban gaya, aur dekho, main doctor ban gaya"

Ajay Devgn also posted a lengthy post sharing his love and admiration for Manoj Kumar.

Taking to his X handle, Manoj Bajpayee wrote, "With the loss of Manoj Kumar Sahab, we bid farewell to a pillar of Hindi cinema. His art celebrated the spirit of India like no other. Deepest condolences to his family and countless admirers. #ManojKumar."

Sharing a photo of the late actor, Farhan Akhtar said, "Woh kaun thi, Gumnaam, Shaheed, Upkar, Purab aur Paschim, Kranti.. the list goes on and on .. thank you for the entertainment and for inspiring generations that followed you. RIP Manoj Kumar ji."

In his heartfelt video tribute, veteran actor Anupam Kher narrated a sweet memory of watching Manoj Kumar's film "Upkaar." He credited the late actor for instilling a deep love for the country within him. The ‘Special 26' actor also recalled an old incident where he shared how he once visited Manoj Kumar's office in Mumbai in search of work. During the meeting, Manoj Kumar told him that his face had that spark and passion. Manoj clearly told him, "I'm not making anything these days, but don't settle for small roles; you deserve to play a big role."

Sharing his video, Kher wrote for the caption, "Manoj Kumar ji has been a big contribution in my life! And will be. Their movies, his film songs not only entertained us but also instilled a beautiful spirit of patriotism. His films have been a big hand in my patriot. (sic) Manoj ji you were really great! Om Shanti! #ManojKumar #Upkaar #Shaheed #PurabPaschim #Kranti."

About Manoj Kumar

Born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Kumar made his mark in Hindi cinema starting in the late 1950s. However, it was during the 1960s and 1970s that he rose to prominence as one of Bollywood's most celebrated stars.

His portrayal of patriotic characters in films like Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Shaheed earned him the nickname "Bharat Kumar" and established him as a national icon.

In addition to his acting prowess, Kumar also excelled as a director and producer. His directorial debut, Upkar (1967), won him the National Film Award for Second Best Feature Film. His other major directorial works, including Purab Aur Paschim (1970) and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974), were both critical and commercial successes.