Manoj Kumar's Funeral Live Update: Raj Babbar calls for conferring India's highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna, to the late legendary actor

A heartbroken Kunal Goswami said he was proud and thankful for the state honours given to his late father. He appreciated the respect shown by the Maharashtra and Indian governments, and the presence of renowned artists who came to pay tribute.

A prayer meeting for legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, who passed away on Friday morning, will be held on Sunday, April 6, at the J.W. Marriott Hotel in Mumbai, between 4 pm and 6 pm.

The news was shared by his family through a note that read, "With deep sorrow and sad heart we inform the passing away of our beloved SHRI MANOJ KUMAR JI (Shri Harikrishan Goswami) July 24, 1937-April 04, 2025."

"He made the Nation and all of us proud with his zeal, vision and cinematic excellence. PRAYER MEETING for peace to the departed soul will be held on Sunday, 6th April 2025, at J.W. Marriott Hotel, Juhu, Mumbai, between 4 pm to 6 pm," the message added.

Manoj Kumar was laid to rest with full state honours at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai on Saturday.

The funeral was attended by prominent Bollywood figures, including Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Salim Khan, and Arbaaz Khan.

The legendary actor and filmmaker passed away at 4:03 a.m. on April 4 at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai AmbHospital in Mumbai after a prolonged illness.

Born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Kumar became an iconic figure in Indian cinema, especially in the 1960s and 1970s. The actor was affectionately known as "Bharat Kumar" for his iconic roles in patriotic films such as Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Shaheed.

In addition to his acting career, 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.

Zeenat Aman expressed her grief on the passing away of the legendary actor and director, Manoj Kumar.

Posting a throwback image with Bharat Kumar, Zeenat penned on her Instagram handle, "Saddened to learn about the passing of Manoj Kumar, May his soul rest in peace."

Manoj Kumar and Zeenat were seen as the leads, Bharat and Sheetal, in the 1974 drama 'Roti Kapda Aur Makaan', directed by Manoj Kumar himself. The film turned out to be a massive hit, becoming the highest-grossing title of the year. 'Roti Kapda Aur Makaan' talks about a man tasked with looking after his family after his father's demise. The song 'Main Na Bhoolunga' from the movie is still inked in the memory of movie buffs.

Meanwhile, filmmaker Subhash Ghai believes that Manoj Kumar was one of the finest filmmakers in the country, whose work continues to inspire everyone.

He told IANS, "The biggest inspiration for the industry is a filmmaker. If we have ten filmmakers in India, who have been an inspiration for the coming generation, he was one of the finest we had, the biggest filmmaker and an actor".

Additionally, veteran actor Raj Babbar mourned the demise of Manoj Kumar. Calling for India's highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna for the late actor, Babbar told IANS, "The film industry has lost a gem today. Manoj Kumar worked towards solidifying the dignity of India, paid respects to the freedom fighters of India through his work in cinema. A director, writer, and actor, who spoke about patriotism. He was very noble, and made a place for himself in the hearts of people through love".

Manoj Kumar's last rites took place in the Vile Parle area of Mumbai today. He was given a state funeral with the Guard of Honour during his last rites.

Numerous members of the film fraternity including Amitabh Bachchan, Salim Khan, Prem Chopra, Raza Murad, Vindu Dara Singh, Anu Malik, and Dheeraj Kumar were also present to pay their last respects.

The final rites of veteran actor Manoj Kumar drew a crowd of emotional admirers and noted film personalities to Juhu, where tributes poured in for the late icon. Among the mourners were Amitabh Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan, who paid their last respects at the crematorium.

While the sombre occasion saw many maintaining a quiet dignity, a moment of tension unfolded when Abhishek Bachchan lost his composure amid an aggressive media presence. As the father-son duo exited the venue, Abhishek appeared visibly upset by the intrusive flashbulbs and constant filming. In a widely circulated video, the actor is seen pushing away a camera and speaking briefly to a member of the media before getting into his vehicle without further comment.

Amitabh Bachchan, meanwhile, paused to greet veteran screenwriter Salim Khan, who appeared genuinely moved by the actor’s presence. The two exchanged pleasantries and shared a warm hug, with Big B walking alongside him briefly in a quiet show of solidarity. Abhishek also acknowledged Salim Khan with a respectful hug.

Bollywood legend Manoj Kumar, best known for his patriotic films and timeless performances, passed away on Friday morning, reportedly due to age-related ailments. The cinematic stalwart, who left a lasting legacy in Indian cinema, was laid to rest on Saturday, April 5, in Juhu, Mumbai.

Family, friends, and members of the film fraternity gathered to bid an emotional farewell to the legendary actor. Visuals from the funeral have surfaced across social media, showing heart-wrenching moments from the ceremony.

One particularly moving clip captured the grief of Manoj Kumar’s wife, Shashi Goswami, as she was seen overwhelmed with emotion while paying her final respects. With teary eyes, she was comforted by close family members, including their son Kunal Goswami, who was seen offering prayers and performing the final rites with solemn dignity.

Actor Zayed Khan also paid his respects at the funeral. A video captured him humbly kneeling before Shashi Goswami, folding his hands, and touching her feet in a gesture of deep respect. He was later seen comforting a young family member of the late actor, offering a warm and reassuring hug during the emotionally charged ceremony.

Veteran actor-politician Raj Babbar recalled taking Manoj Kumar's blessings when he started working on his 1999 movie "Shaheed Udham Singh".

"The Indian film industry has lost a precious gem. He brought glory to India, to our culture, and to all those patriots who have always been proud of our country. He showcased the dignity and pride of India to the world and within the country.

"As a writer, director, and a person who spoke of patriotism, he was a noble soul who always earned a place in people's hearts with love," he told PTI.

As tributes pour in for legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, who passed away on Friday, villagers of Nangal Thakran, where his iconic film "Upkar" was shot in 1967, remembered him not just as a star, but as one of their own. The veteran actor, known for his patriotic roles and films like "Upkar", "Purab Aur Paschim" and "Roti Kapda Aur Makaan", spent more than a month in the village in Delhi's Narela area during the shooting of "Upkar", a film that left a deep imprint on the villagers.
Juman Chowdhary was a landlord in Nangal Thakran and several shots of the film were shot in his house.

Chowdhary's grandson, Mahendra Singh, recalled that the scene of grinding grain, the robbery scene and a fight scene with Prem Chopra were shot in their house.

"Manoj Kumar was a very cheerful person. He would talk to everyone he met and sit with them," he said.

"He used to make tea in the fields, order Campa Cola and serve it to everyone. He loved sarso ka saag, bajra roti and red-chili chutney. He would have it specially prepared at our home," Singh said.

Pandit Umid Prakash, at whose house Kumar used to prepare himself before the shooting, said the actor used to like the curd and buttermilk made by his mother.

People would come all the way from Meerut, Alipur and even farther places to watch the shooting and the crowd became so large at times that the shooting had to be stopped, Prakash told PTI Videos.

He said Kumar stayed with them for more than a month and a half and sent them movie tickets after "Upkar" was released.

"He even attended my nephew's wedding and was really close to my uncle," Prakash said.

The influence of "Upkar" extended beyond the screen.

"We have heard since childhood that a film was shot in our village and Manoj Kumar's close connection with our family gave us such an exposure that today, my sister is a model in Mumbai because of it," Prakash's grandson, Aakash Bharadwaj, said.

He also recalled a touching moment when his grandfather visited Kumar's Mumbai residence.

"My grandfather wanted to meet him, so we went to his house in Juhu. We were hesitant, but his family welcomed us warmly, though we were not able to meet him as he was not home," he said.

Bharadwaj added that when the actor got to know about their visit, he called them to say that he would meet them once he returned from his trip.

Often hailed as "Bharat Kumar" for his string of patriotic films, Kumar passed away early Friday morning in Mumbai at the age of 87. He was unwell for some time and died due to age-related issues at the Kokilaben Ambani Hospital.

Prem Chopra, who featured alongside the actor in films such as "Woh Kaun Thi?", "Shaheed", "Upkar", "Anita", "Purab Aur Paschim", "Sanyasi", "Kalyug Aur Ramayan" and "Kranti", said Kumar was one of his best friends.

"We have been together since the beginning, it's been a great journey. Everybody has benefited from working with him. I benefited after working with him. In those days, we used to make movies with a lot of passion," he told PTI.

"Even today, when 'Shaheed' comes on TV, I get calls from people. He was very happy with my performance as Sukhdev in the movie," Chopra said about the 1965 movie, based on the life of revolutionary Bhagat Singh, who was played by Kumar.

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan and veteran screenwriter Salim Khan shared a heartfelt reunion as they came together to bid farewell to legendary actor-filmmaker Manoj Kumar, who passed away on Friday at the age of 87. The two stalwarts were seen embracing each other at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Juhu on Saturday, where Manoj Kumar was cremated with full state honours, including a three-gun salute.

In a video from the funeral, Bachchan was seen walking toward Salim Khan, who smiled warmly on seeing his former collaborator. The duo exchanged a few words and shared a brief yet emotional hug, evoking memories of their iconic collaborations in Hindi cinema. Abhishek Bachchan also greeted Salim Khan with a hug, as both father and son dressed in traditional white kurta-pyjamas paired with black jackets.

Veteran actor Raj Babbar mourned the demise of Manoj Kumar. He called for conferring India's highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna to the late actor.

Raj Babbar spoke with IANS at Pawan Hans, after Manoj Kumar was given a state farewell. He told IANS, “The film industry has lost a gem today. Manoj Kumar worked towards solidifying the dignity of India, paid respects to the freedom fighters of India through his work in cinema. A director, writer, and actor, who spoke about patriotism. He was very noble, and made a place for himself in the hearts of people through love”.

He further mentioned, “I remember, I was starting work on ‘Shaheed Uddham Singh’, and went to seek his blessings. I met him in Delhi, and told him that I’m making this film, and I’ll need you. I said, ‘People immediately think of you when they think of our great freedom fighter Bhagat Singh, you’re the face of Bhagay Singh (in cinema)’. He gave me his blessings, as I told him that he has inspired me to make this film. He told me one thing, ‘Raj, you will do very good’. When I showed him the rough cut, he loved it, and also advised us to make small changes in the editing”.

“There’s no doubt that Manoj Kumar has worked towards building the nation through his work in cinema. He deserves to be feted with Bharat Ratna”, he added.

India said a final goodbye to one of its most beloved cinematic icons, Manoj Kumar, as his last rites were performed on Saturday, April 5, with full state honours.
The legendary actor and director, known for his portrayal of strong patriotic characters, was laid to rest at the Vile Parle crematorium, where he was accorded a Guard of Honour, marking the end of an era in Indian cinema. The last rites started at about 11:30 am and Kumar's two sons -- Vishal and Kunal -- lit the funeral pyre of the actor-filmmaker who died on Friday due to age-related issues at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani hospital. He was 87.

Born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Kumar's portrayal of nationalistic characters earned him the affectionate title of "Bharat Kumar."

His films, such as Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Shaheed (1965), are considered landmarks in Indian cinema, shaping the nation's cinematic landscape with their patriotic fervour.

The actor's funeral procession was a solemn yet celebratory event, with his coffin draped in the Indian tricolour as a tribute to his enduring legacy of patriotism.

The ambulance carrying his mortal remains was adorned with flowers in the tricolour, symbolizing his deep connection to the spirit of India.

Family, friends, celebrities and admirers gathered at the cremation ground in Juhu for the star's final darshan.

Filmmaker Subhash Ghai attended the last rites of actor Manoj Kumar in the city on Saturday. Bidding adieu to his fellow filmmaker, Subhash Ghai spoke with IANS, and said that Manoj Kumar was one of the finest filmmakers of our country whose work continues to inspire everyone.

He told IANS, “The biggest inspiration for the industry is a filmmaker. If we have ten filmmakers in India, who have been an inspiration for the coming generation, he was one of the finest we had, the biggest filmmaker and an actor”.

He further mentioned, “Manoj Kumar boasted of fine craftsmanship, content, this kind of connection with the audience, and gave songs like ‘Mere Desh Ki Dharti’, ‘Kasme Vaade’, ‘Teri Meri Kahani’ to the audience. And this music is still relevant in current times, and will stay relevant for the next 50 years as well”.

As India bids farewell to legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, tributes continue to pour in from across the film fraternity. The 87-year-old icon, whose films became synonymous with patriotism and national pride, will be laid to rest with full state honours today, April 5.

Among the many industry veterans who visited his residence to offer their condolences were actor-politician Raj Babbar, filmmaker Subhash Ghai, and veteran actor Ranjeet. The three were seen paying their respects to the late icon and standing in solidarity with the grieving family during this solemn time.

Their presence, along with that of many others from the film world, reflects the profound impact Manoj Kumar had on Indian cinema—not just as a filmmaker but as a symbol of heartfelt storytelling that resonated deeply with audiences across generations.

Veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, the man who immortalized patriotism on the Indian silver screen, has left the mortal world.

His family, including his son Kunal Goswami, gathered at the residence as preparations for the final rites began. Manoj Kumar’s wife was seen breaking down in tears, supported by close relatives and friends as the industry and the nation bid him farewell.

Several prominent personalities from the film industry have visited to pay their last respects. Legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan, accompanied by his son Abhishek Bachchan, arrived at the late actor’s residence to offer condolences and stand in solidarity with the bereaved family. The Bachchans, who shared a deep bond with Manoj Kumar and his contribution to Indian cinema, were seen in quiet reflection during the visit.

The late actor’s residence also saw the presence of Salim Khan, Arbaaz Khan, Raza Murad, media baron Subhash Chandra, and actor Sudhanshu Pandey, among others, who came to honour his memory.

Veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, remembered for his iconic portrayal of patriotism in Indian cinema, passed away on April 4 following a prolonged illness, leaving behind a cinematic legacy that shaped the golden era of Hindi films.

As per state protocol, his mortal remains were respectfully draped in the Indian national flag. Earlier in the day, visuals from his residence showed an ambulance adorned with flowers in the colours of the tricolour, a symbolic gesture that reflected the themes his films proudly carried.

Several well-known personalities from the film and media industries have visited his home to pay their respects. Among the latest to arrive were Salim Khan and Arbaaz Khan, who offered their condolences and stood in support of the grieving family.

Earlier, actor Raza Murad, media baron Subhash Chandra, and actor Sudhanshu Pandey were also seen at the residence, paying heartfelt tributes to the cinematic icon.

The outpouring of love and respect from industry colleagues and admirers highlights the profound impact Manoj Kumar had on Indian cinema and national consciousness. As the nation prepares to say goodbye to one of its most beloved storytellers, his memory and message of patriotism will continue to live on through his timeless films.

Legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, known for his iconic portrayals of patriotism on the silver screen, will be laid to rest with full state honours today, April 5. The 87-year-old stalwart of Indian cinema breathed his last on April 4, following a prolonged illness.

A wave of grief swept through the residence as Manoj Kumar’s family, including his son Kunal Goswami, stood by his side for the final journey. His wife, visibly heartbroken, was seen breaking down during the solemn ceremony, supported by loved ones.

Several prominent personalities from the film and political fraternity arrived to pay their last respects. Veteran actor Raza Murad, media baron Subhash Chandra, and actor Sudhanshu Pandey were among those present at the residence, offering condolences and honouring the memory of the cinematic legend.

Veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, who carved a niche in Indian cinema with his iconic patriotic films, will be laid to rest with full state honours today, April 5.

The 87-year-old legend passed away on April 4 after battling a prolonged illness. Following his demise, his mortal remains were brought home from the hospital in keeping with the family's wishes and ceremonial protocols.

In a moving tribute to his legacy and contributions to the nation, Kumar's mortal remains were draped in the Indian tricolour. Earlier visuals from his residence showed an ambulance adorned with tricolour-themed floral arrangements, reflecting the spirit of nationalism that defined much of his cinematic journey.

A somber mood enveloped the actor’s residence as close friends, family, and admirers gathered to bid their final farewell. His grieving family, including his wife and son Kunal Goswami, were seen overwhelmed with emotion, with Kumar’s wife breaking down in tears during the final rites.

Among those who came to offer their condolences were veteran actor Prem Chopra and his wife. Their presence, along with several other industry colleagues and friends, reflected the deep respect and admiration Manoj Kumar commanded in both professional and personal circles.

Manoj Kumar's mortal remains arrived wrapped in the national flag. As family and loved ones gathered to pay their respects, the wife of the late actor couldn't control her tears as she mourned her beloved.

Family and friends gathered to pay their final respects as the tricolor was laid over the mortal remains of Manoj Kumar as a mark of honor.

The 87-year-old Padma Shri awardee passed away on Friday at a hospital, where he had been under medical care since February 21 due to deteriorating health.

Preparations are in full swing at the residence of late actor-filmmaker Manoj Kumar as his family, the Bollywood film fraternity and fans prepare to bid him a final farewell today.

The 87-year-old Padma Shri awardee passed away on Friday at a hospital, where he had been under medical care since February 21 due to deteriorating health.

According to a statement from his son, Kunal Goswami, the cremation is scheduled to take place later today at Pawan Hans, with the final journey expected to begin this afternoon. Providing details of the last rites, Kunal told the media, “We will leave the hospital at 9. We will come here at 10 at our house. And at 11, we will go to Pawan Hans for cremation.”

Legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar passed away on April 4 at the age of 87. His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from numerous Bollywood celebrities. Now, actress Saira Banu, the wife of the late legendary actor Dilip Kumar, has shared a touching tribute on Instagram, featuring a slideshow of previously unseen photos of Manoj Kumar. In her post, she recalled working on the 1970 film 'Purab Aur Paschim' and cherished the strong connection she had with the late actor. In her caption, Banu fondly recalled her early days in cinema, noting, “Soon after my very first film, I began receiving numerous offers. Among them was Shaadi, a film that holds a special place in my heart. It was here that I was paired opposite Manoj ji for the very first time.”

Renowned actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar passed away on April 4 2025, leaving behind a rich legacy that shaped Indian cinema. His demise has left the film industry and his admirers in deep sorrow. Actress Mandakini has now reflected on his passing, calling it a significant loss. While she never had the opportunity to meet Manoj Kumar, she held immense admiration for his work.

Speaking about her connection with his family, Mandakini shared, “Unfortunately, I never met him. I actually worked in a movie with his brother but never got a chance to see him or anything like that.”

She further spoke about the deep sadness his passing had caused her in a conversation with Pinkvilla. “It’s sad. He was a very good actor. I always admired him. I watched all his movies—one of the finest actors, I should say. That’s all I can say. It’s a big loss. I worked with his son, and all I can say to his family is that may his soul rest in peace and may God give them strength... My condolences to the family. We’ll pray for them and their loss.”

The nation is grieving the loss of legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, who breathed his last this morning following a heart attack.His cousin, Manish Goswami, reflecting on his final days, shared with Hindustan Times, “I have been visiting the hospital practically every day. He would have been 88 this July but due to old age complications, gradually, the heart starts pumping less. He had been talking on and off, but the last three days, he had been speaking less.”

Renowned for introducing the essence of nationalism to Indian cinema, Manoj Kumar’s contribution remains unparalleled. Manish further emphasized, “The word patriotism in the Indian film industry, he is the person who’s sowed the seed for it from his films like Shaheed, Upkaar and Purab Aur Paschim. These are all his masterpieces, which will go in history for today’s generation to watch.”

“Another one of the legends gone,” sighed Asha Parekh as she spoke to us about the late legendary actor Manoj Kumar.

“All my colleagues are going one by one. It makes you wonder who is next,” added the veteran star with a heavy heart, while she still tried to process the news of Manoj Kumar’s demise.

Fondly called ‘Bharat Kumar,’ the late actor and Asha Parekh shared a special bond as she was a part of his first directorial venture. Reminiscing those days, the actress shared, “We always knew he had it in him. He used to be very active behind the camera, even when he was just an actor.”


“‘Upkar’ was a very ambitious war film. When he offered it to me, I didn’t hesitate for even a minute in saying yes, although I didn’t have much of a role. I sensed I was going to be part of something historic. And I was right. He made ‘Upkar’ based on our Prime Minister Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri’s ‘Jai Jawan Jai Kissan’ slogan. I am proud to be part of that film,” exclaimed the actress.

She added, “‘Do Badan,’ I think, came a year before ‘Upkar.’ The great Raj Khosla was the director. Manoj ji had worked with the director earlier in the superhit ‘Woh Kaun Thi.’ They were a real team. I was working with Raj Khoslaji for the first time. We (Raj Khosla and Asha Parekh) subsequently worked in several films, including the superhits ‘Mera Gaon Mera Desh’ and ‘Main Tulsi Tere Aangan Ki.’ ‘Do Badan’ was a very intense film. Both Manoj and I had to perform many emotional scenes. He played a blind man, but I wasn’t supposed to know he was blind.”

The Indian film industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, whose passing has left a deep void among his colleagues and admirers. Among those grieving his loss is veteran actor Prem Chopra, who shared a long-standing camaraderie with Kumar, having collaborated on several memorable films. In a conversation with Hindustan Times, Chopra reflected on their cherished moments together. “Manoj Kumar was very close to me and I've lost a dear friend of mine. We have worked together from Shaheed to Kranti, and we shared all sorts of moments, be it of laughter or creativity. I used to feel very proud that I was standing next to him because he was a cinema man. He used to write his own scripts and dialogues, and sometimes even operate the camera,” he said.

“I tried calling him in recent times, but he wasn’t picking up the calls. We didn't mind it because we knew he wasn’t doing well, " he further added.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed heartfelt condolences on the passing of veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar. In a press note, he said, "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."

Fadnavis recalled iconic films like 'Shaheed', 'Purab Aur Paschim', and 'Upkaar', which celebrated Indian culture and unity. He praised Kumar’s work behind the scenes, calling his contribution to cinema "truly unmatched and irreplaceable."

"After that, he dealt with topics like agriculture in films and songs like 'Mere Desh Ki Dharti' are still heard with the same pride on every Independence Day..." Fadnavis noted, highlighting films like 'Kranti' and 'Roti Kapda Aur Makaan'.

He added, "With his death, Hindi cinema has lost a veteran artist... I pray that his soul may rest in peace."

Recalling memories of the actor, Hema Malini spoke about Manoj Kumar and said, "As an actor, he kept himself a little in the background, he never used to force himself into the foreground. There were so many big actors in ‘Kranti’ including Dilip Kumar. Everybody had equal importance,” she shared. “And one more thing about him, he would never touch the heroine in the romantic scenes. Very sweet and lovely person, very nice and inspiring,” revealed Hema Malini while fondly recalling her co-star.

Shatrughan Sinha took to X (formerly Twitter) and wrote, "Heartfelt condolences for the son of the soil, pride of film industry, Maharashtra/India, a 'Bharat Ratna' in true sense, our own 'Bharat' #ManojKumar is no more. He worked in enormous movies but he will always rule our hearts with his roles in Shaheed, Upkar, Purab aur Pachhim, Roti Kapada aur Makaan, Kranti, Shor & Shirdi ke Sai Baba, his immortal films, to name a few. The songs of these films & many others are gems to cherish for years to come. A true patriot, which he portrayed beautifully in his films. Prayers for strenght to his family, friends, fans & admirers in these difficult times. May his soul rest in eternal peace. ????️Shanti"

Poonam Dhillon arrived at Manoj Kumar's house to pay her last respect to the legendary actor-director. The actress spoke to the media outside his house and showered praise on him. She paid tribute to him and said, "We have all grown up seeing his movies. I'm grateful to have been able to work in one of his productions. He's a legend. I think he was one of the finest original director. His contribution to the industry is great. He's extremely previous to the industry - how to make movies, his songs, everything about his movies is something to learn from. He is a text-book in film-making."

In memory of his contributions to Indian cinema and his intense sense of patriotism, numerous political figures paid tribute to him after his death.President Droupadi Murmu expressed her grief, saying, "Saddened by the demise of legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar Ji. He left an indelible mark on Indian cinema with his patriotic films, which promoted pride in India’s values and contributions. The iconic roles he played—whether as national heroes, farmers, or soldiers—will always be remembered. His work will continue to inspire generations. My heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers."

Dharmendra was spotted arriving at Manoj Kumar's house to pay his last respect to the actor. He was captured by the paps outside the house who asked him to share some memories associated with the actor. Dharmendra and Manoj Kumar had shared screen space in the 1962 movie 'Shaadi'. Dharmendra said in this video shared by ANI, "Bohot si baatein hai, film industry mein hamara bachpan saath hi guzra hai. (We have many memories together. We spent our earlier days in the film industry together.)"

Speaking exclusively to ETimes, Aruna Irani expressed her sorrow, reminiscing about her long association with Manoj Kumar. “He was my guru. I did my first film, 'Upkar', with him, and he was a true gentleman—a great actor, director, and producer. His wife was also a wonderful person, and we received special care during the filming of his movies. I was part of almost all his films. If he did ten films, I was in at least nine of them,” she shared.

Actor Ajay Devgn shared a deeply personal tribute, thanking Manoj Kumar for giving his father, Veeru Devgan, his first opportunity in the film industry. He wrote, "Manoj Kumar ji was not just a cinematic icon—he was a personal milestone in my family's journey. He gave my father, Veeru Devgan, his very first break as an action director in 'Roti Kapda Aur Makaan.' From there, their collaboration continued all the way to 'Kranti,' creating moments that are now part of Indian cinema's golden history.

Bollywood is mourning the loss of one of its most precious gems - legendary star Manoj Kumar, or as the world fondly calls him, ‘Bharat Kumar.’ The legendary star was highly loved for his patriotic movies and stellar performances. The best part was that he was even stronger in real life than the characters he played on the screen. He never hesitated in speaking his mind and has always been a straight shooter. He never thought twice before raising his voice when he found something distasteful. An example of the same was seen when he filed a defamation lawsuit against Shah Rukh Khan and the movie ‘Om Shanti Om’ Manoj Kumar’s controversy with SRK, Eros over ‘Om Shanti Om’ More than a decade ago, Manoj Kumar filed a lawsuit against Shah Rukh Khan and Eros International, the producers of the 2007 hit *Om Shanti Om*. Upon the film’s release, Manoj Kumar expressed his outrage over how he was portrayed in the movie. Reports state that he felt insulted and announced his intention to file civil and criminal proceedings against the producers, seeking Rs 100 crore in damages.

The Indian film industry is mourning the loss of legendary actor, director, and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, who passed away at the age of 87.

Kumar, affectionately known as "Bharat Kumar" for his portrayal of patriotic characters, breathed his last at 4:03 am on April 4, 2025.

Kumar's son, Kunal Goswami, confirmed that his last rites will be performed tomorrow at 11 am at Pawan Hans in front of Nanavati Hospital in Vile Parle.

Speaking to the media, Kunal also thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his heartfelt tweet, saying, "I thank PM Narendra Modi for his tweet... Be it Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, or Roti Kapada Aur Makaan, these movies are still relevant today. The issues he raised are still relevant today whether in the Parliament or in the society..."

Bollywood star Aamir Khan said in a statement, "Manoj Kumar was not just an actor, and filmmaker, he was an institution. I have learnt so much watching his films. His films were often based on important social themes which brought him really close to the common man. My heartfelt condolences to his family"

Senior Maharashtra leaders, including Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, paid rich tributes to veteran actor-filmmaker Manoj Kumar, who died at a hospital in Mumbai on Friday, lauding him for instilling the sentiment of patriotism in citizens. Manoj Kumar (87), who came to be known as 'Bharat Kumar' because of his series of patriotic films, died of age-related issues at the Kokilaben Ambani Hospital around 3.30 am.

Fadnavis, in his condolence message, said, "I pay my tributes to the senior artist 'Bharat Kumar' who aroused and instilled the sentiment of patriotism and awareness about Indian social life among citizens."

He said Kumar made a mark for himself with his film "Shaheed", playing revolutionary Bhagat Singh, and later focussed on the issue of agriculture in several of his movies.

"Even today, the song 'Mere Desh Ki Sharti' is heard with pride every Independence Day. His movie 'Purab Aur Paschim' made several records overseas. 'Roti Kapda Aur Makan', 'Upkar' and 'Kranti' touched upon several social issues," the chief minister said.

He said Kumar instilled patriotism and nationalism through all his movies, and his demise has left a void that cannot be filled.