Manoj Kumar Last Rites: It was the end of the era of Indian cinema, and the iconic Manojkumar (often welcomed as the face of Bollywood patriotic films), who at the age of 87 brought his final breath in Mumbai.
The veteran actor and filmmaker is best known for giving India the voice of a film of national pride through cult classics such as “Upkar”, “Purab Aur Paschim”, and “Roti Kapada Aur Makaan”.
advertisement
The towering figures of the golden age of Hindi cinema lovingly called him “Bharatkumar” because of his repeated portrayal of the selfless and idealistic Indian protagonist who defended the truth, sacrifice and the nation. His on-screen aura wasn’t just dramatic. It was about purpose, and for many it was synonymous with patriotism itself.
More details about Manoj Kumar Last Rites:
His son, Kunal Goswami, confirmed that the final ceremony will be held at 11am on April 5 at Pawan Hans, across from Nanabati Hospital in Vir Pearl, Mumbai. Speaking to the media, Kunal was deeply grateful for the tribute that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was moving, pointing out how the theme of Manoj Kumar’s film is ringing today.
“Whether it’s ‘Upkar’ or ‘Roti Kapada Aur Makaan’, the social issues my father raised are still relevant.
In a stern post on X (formerly Twitter), the Prime Minister said, “I was deeply saddened by the death of legendary actor and filmmaker Sri Manoj Kumar Ji, an Indian cinema icon, particularly with his patriotic enthusiasm.
Also Read: Top Films by Manoj Kumar: Reminiscence of the Hero Who Makes India His Story
Manoj Kumar’s cousin, producer Manish R. Goswami, repeated similar sentiments, calling the film “true Indians” and the film a platform for national consciousness. Goswami also mentioned their past meetings, including past meetings during the presentation of the prestigious Dadasaheb Falke Award in 2015, recalling the longstanding bond between the Prime Minister and Kumar.
Behind the scenes, Manojkumar was battling serious health complications. He was admitted to the hospital on February 21, 2025 and was under constant medical supervision. The doctors attributed his death to cardiogenic shock after a heart attack. He also suffered from decompensation for several months of liver cirrhosis, which had significantly worsened his health.