Veteran actor-director and Padma Shri recipient Manoj Kumar passes away at 87. Netizens mourn loss of 'Bharat Kumar'

Veteran Indian actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, renowned for his patriotic-themed movies and fondly referred to as ' Bharat Kumar,' has passed away at the age of 87. He breathed his last at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital.

Netizens Mourn 'Bharat Kumar'

As soon as the news broke out, many fans flooded the comment section to pay their last respects to the veteran actor-director. One comment read, "You will be remembered forever, Sir.. Original 'Bharat Kumar."

Another comment read, "True film maker. Desh bhakti ke gaane aj bhi inke hi bajte hai."

A longtime fan reminisced when his film ran in theatres for several days during his youth. "We 70s kids won't forget his Kranti...went 6 months houseful when I was in school..."

Who Was Manoj Kumar?

Originally named Harikrishna Giri Goswami, Manoj Kumar played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of patriotic cinema in Bollywood. He helmed iconic films such as Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Kranti (1981), leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema. His portrayal of nationalist characters on screen earned him the revered title of ‘Bharat Kumar.’