Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], April 4 (ANI): The legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar passed away at the age of 87 on Friday morning.

The actor breathed his last at 4:03 a.m. on April 4 at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, after battling a long illness.

Veteran actor Raza Murad remembered him as an 'era in himself'. In a conversation with ANI, he said, 'Manoj Kumar was not just an actor and film director but an era in himself... he was a legend in his own right. The flame of patriotism he ignited in the hearts of the countrymen continues to burn even today...'

Film director and host Sajid Khan also paid tribute to late actor, saying, 'A very significant chapter of the film industry has come to an end, but it is a chapter that has taught us some techniques of filmmaking in every era. Many generations will learn from his films. His absence will be deeply felt. Many filmmakers like me have learned a great deal from him...'

Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis, expressed his deep sorrow in a statement, describing the loss of Manoj Kumar as a significant blow to Indian cinema.

'With the demise of veteran actor and director Manoj Kumar, we have lost a great personality in Indian cinema. His films instilled patriotism and Indian social values, making the name 'Bharat Kumar' truly meaningful,' he said.

Fadnavis praised Kumar for his influential films like Shaheed, Purab Aur Paschim, and Upkaar, which celebrated India's culture, unity, and national pride.

Kumar had been struggling with liver cirrhosis and other health complications.

His son, Kunal Goswami, confirmed that his last rites would be held on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at Pawan Hans in Vile Parle, Mumbai.

Political leaders, including President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, among others, have paid tribute to the late actor.

PM Modi praised Kumar as an 'icon of Indian cinema,' whose films continue to inspire national pride. Other prominent figures, such as Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and AAP's Arvind Kejriwal, also expressed their condolences.

Kangana Ranaut, BJP MP and actress, highlighted Kumar's significant role in fostering patriotism through his cinematic work, and said, 'He raised the sentiment of patriotism among the countrymen.'

Kumar's legacy, recognized with prestigious awards such as the Padma Shri in 1992 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015, will continue to influence future generations of filmmakers and audiences alike. (ANI)