Legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar passes away at 87

Veteran Indian actor and film director Manoj Kumar has passed away. His patriotic films had made a special place in the heart of every Indian. Manoj Kumar, popularly known as 'Bharat Kumar', breathed his last at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in the early hours of Friday. His death at the age of 87 is an irreparable loss for Indian cinema.

Manoj Kumar, who was suffering from age-related diseases, was admitted to the hospital for the last few weeks. The hospital administration informed that he said goodbye to the world at around 3:30 am today.

Born as Harikrishna Giri Goswami on 24 July 1937, Manoj Kumar left his mark in Hindi cinema not only as an actor but also as a director, screenwriter, lyricist and editor. It was because of his patriotic films that he came to be known as 'Bharat Kumar'. His famous films include cult films like 'Shaheed', 'Upkar', 'Purab Aur Paschim', and 'Roti Kapda Aur Makaan', in which he won the hearts of the audience with both acting and direction.

For his outstanding contribution, the Government of India honored him with Padma Shri in 1992 and Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015. Apart from patriotic themes, he also acted in many great films like 'Hariyali Aur Raasta', 'Woh Kaun Thi', 'Himalay Ki God Mein', 'Do Badan', 'Patthar Ke Sanam', 'Neel Kamal' and 'Kranti'.

The death of Manoj Kumar has sent a wave of mourning in the film world and many film personalities have paid tribute to him. His last rites will be performed tomorrow at 9 am at Pawan Hans crematorium. His contribution to Indian cinema will always be remembered.