Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 4 (ANI): The Indian film industry bids farewell to one of its greatest legends, actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, who passed away at the age of 87.

He breathed his last at 4:03 am on April 4, 2025, at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, after battling a long illness.

Speaking to ANI, his son, Kunal Goswami, shared the sad news and said, 'Namaskar Ji, I am Kunal Goswami. Unfortunately, my father Manoj Kumar has passed away today at around 3:30 am in Kokilaben Ambani Hospital. He was unwell for a long time, but he has overcome everything with great intensity. It is God's grace that he passed away peacefully. He will be cremated tomorrow morning. Thank you to all of you.'

Kunal Goswami further mentioned that his father, who would have turned 88 in two months, had been in declining health but was at peace with his loved ones, especially his grandsons and younger relatives.

'He was very happy, though a little unwell due to his age,' he said, adding, 'His cremation will take place tomorrow (Saturday, April 5, 2025).'

The actor's cousin, Manish R Goswami, also expressed his sorrow and said, 'This is sad news for the entire country. The era of making movies on patriotism has ended today. This is the end of an era of a true Indian and true patriotism.'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his condolences on social media, writing, '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.'

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Born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Manoj Kumar became an iconic figure in Indian cinema, especially in the 1960s and 1970s.

He was affectionately known as 'Bharat Kumar' for his iconic roles in patriotic films like Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Shaheed.

His portrayal of nationalistic characters made him a household name, and he is remembered as a symbol of Indian pride.

In addition to acting, Kumar made significant contributions as a director and producer. His directorial debut Upkar (1967) won the National Film Award for Second Best Feature Film.

Other successful films directed by him include Purab Aur Paschim (1970) and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974), both of which were major successes, both critically and commercially.

Manoj Kumar's contributions to Indian cinema were widely recognized. He was honoured with the Padma Shri in 1992 for his work in the arts and was awarded the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015 for his lifetime achievements in cinema.

Over the course of his career, he also received seven Filmfare Awards across various categories.

His legacy as a filmmaker and a national icon continues to inspire generations of cinephiles and filmmakers.

After retiring from films, Kumar also ventured into politics. In the lead-up to the 2004 general elections, he formally joined the Bharatiya Janata Party. (ANI)