Mumbai, India – April 4, 2025
The Indian film industry is in mourning following the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, affectionately known as ‘Bharat Kumar,’ who died at the age of 87 on Friday, April 4, 2025, at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. Kumar, celebrated for his patriotic cinematic contributions, succumbed to cardiogenic shock caused by an acute myocardial infarction after battling prolonged health issues, including decompensated liver cirrhosis. His death has prompted an outpouring of grief and heartfelt tributes from some of Bollywood’s biggest stars, including Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan, who honored the veteran actor’s indelible legacy.
Shah Rukh Khan, one of India’s most iconic actors, took to social media to express his admiration for Kumar’s work. In a poignant post on X at 5:09 AM PDT, he wrote, “Manoj Kumar ji made films that uplifted our country, our cinema, and focused on unity with unmatched sincerity. A legend in every sense. His films shaped an era and left a mark on our cinema. Thank you, sir. You will always be ‘Bharat’ to us.” The tribute reflects Shah Rukh’s respect for Kumar’s ability to weave patriotism and social messages into his storytelling, a sentiment that resonates deeply given their shared history—albeit rocky at times. In 2007, Kumar had filed a defamation case against Shah Rukh and filmmaker Farah Khan over a scene in Om Shanti Om that he felt mocked him, though he later withdrew the suit. This tribute suggests a reconciliation of past tensions, focusing instead on Kumar’s towering contributions.
Salman Khan, another Bollywood titan, also shared his condolences via X at 1:30 AM PDT, writing, “Manoj Kumar Ji… a true legend. Thank you for the unforgettable films and memories…” Known for his own larger-than-life screen presence, Salman’s brief but emotional note underscores the impact Kumar’s films—such as Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974)—had on generations of actors and audiences alike. These works, steeped in themes of nationalism and social justice, earned Kumar the nickname ‘Bharat Kumar’ and cemented his status as a cinematic institution.
Aamir Khan, often hailed for his thoughtful approach to cinema, issued a formal statement that highlighted Kumar’s influence on his own career. “Manoj Kumar was not just an actor and filmmaker; he was an institution,” Aamir said. “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.” Aamir’s words echo a sentiment he once shared in an interview with The Times of India, where he praised Kumar as the ideal actor for patriotic roles, a mantle Aamir himself has taken up in films like Lagaan and Mangal Pandey. Kumar’s ability to connect with the masses through films like Shaheed (1965) clearly left a lasting impression on the PK star.
Kumar’s career spanned decades, beginning with his debut in Fashion (1957) and peaking in the 1960s and ’70s with a string of hits that blended entertainment with powerful messages. His directorial debut, Upkar, inspired by Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri’s slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan,” won him a National Film Award and remains a cultural touchstone. Recognized with the Padmaerior Shri in 1992 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015, Kumar’s legacy is one of unwavering commitment to India’s ethos on screen.
As tributes continue to pour in, the trio of Shah Rukh, Salman, and Aamir—representing different generations of Bollywood stardom—underscore the breadth of Kumar’s influence. From Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who called him “an icon of Indian cinema” whose works “ignited a spirit of national pride,” to countless fans and peers, the loss of Manoj Kumar marks the end of an era. His last rites are scheduled for Saturday, April 5, leaving the industry and nation to reflect on a man whose cinematic voice echoed the heartbeat of India.
By Staff Writer, Mumbai Mirror