Veteran Bollywood actor and director Manoj Kumar, renowned for his tribute to national pride in cinema, has passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai. According to Dr. Santosh Shetty from Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, his death was due to "age-related health issues." His son, Kunal Goswami, noted that Kumar had been facing health problems for quite some time.
Originally named Harikrishan Goswami and born in Punjab in 1937, Kumar rose to fame in the 1960s and 1970s with major films like "Shaheed," "Roti Kapada Aur Makaan," and "Kranti." His works, characterized by their patriotic messages, have endeared him to millions. Throughout his career, he garnered multiple accolades, including the prestigious Padma Shri and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India's top recognition in film.
The news of his passing has elicited heartfelt tributes on social media, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi describing Kumar as an "icon of Indian cinema." Modi emphasized that Kumar's films ignited national pride and would continue to inspire future generations. Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit reflected on the loss, stating the film industry would deeply miss the legendary figure.
