Veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai. According to ANI, he breathed his last at 4:03 am on Friday at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. His mortal remains will be kept at his Juhu residence from Friday afternoon, allowing friends, fans, and colleagues to pay their final respects. The cremation is expected to take place on Saturday.

Medical reports confirmed that Manoj Kumar died due to cardiogenic shock caused by an acute myocardial infarction (severe heart attack). He had also been battling decompensated liver cirrhosis for the past few months and was admitted to the hospital on February 21, 2025.

Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit mourned his passing, 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. He was always full of life. The entire industry will miss him dearly.”

Born as Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Amritsar, Manoj Kumar was best known for his patriotic films, earning him the nickname ‘Bharat Kumar’. His impactful performances in classics like Shaheed, Upkar, and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan deeply resonated with Indian audiences.

A pioneer of socially conscious cinema, Manoj Kumar was also celebrated for his direction and screenwriting. His contributions were recognized with several accolades including a National Film Award, seven Filmfare Awards, and the Padma Shri in 1992. In 2015, he was bestowed with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Indian cinema’s highest honour.

His passing marks the end of an era, leaving behind a lasting legacy of cinematic excellence and patriotism.