Veteran Indian actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar has passed away at the age of 87. The legendary actor breathed his last at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai, leaving behind a rich legacy in Hindi cinema. Known for his iconic films that often featured patriotic themes, Kumar’s contribution to the film industry is both profound and memorable.
A Unique Career Path
Despite his significant impact on Indian cinema, Manoj Kumar’s filmography is notably smaller compared to his contemporaries. In an interview with Subhash K Jha, he reflected on his career choices, stating, “I am not a greedy film person even as an actor.” While actors like Dharmendra and Shashi Kapoor appeared in nearly 300 films each, Kumar had a more selective career, with only about 35 films to his name. His last acting role was in the 1995 film “Maidan-E-Jung,” and his final directorial project was “Jai Hind” in 1999.
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When discussing his favorite project, Kumar cited “Shor” (1972), a poignant tale about a father and his mute son. He recalled, “The son can’t speak, and the father pines to hear him. But the day the son speaks, the father can’t hear anymore.” This unique storyline highlighted Kumar’s ability to explore deep emotional narratives, and it remains a significant part of his legacy.
Iconic Works and Recognition
Manoj Kumar was widely recognized for films such as “Shaheed” (1965), “Upkar” (1967), “Purab Aur Paschim” (1970), and “Roti Kapda Aur Makaan” (1974). His strong association with patriotic themes earned him the affectionate title of “Bharat Kumar.” Notably, he became a director by default during the making of “Shaheed” and subsequently helmed successful films like “Upkar,” inspired by Lal Bahadur Shastri’s slogan “Jai Jawan Jai Kisan.”
A Fond Farewell
As the film industry and fans mourn the loss of this cinematic icon, Manoj Kumar’s son, Kunal Goswami, confirmed the news of his father’s passing and announced that the final rites will take place tomorrow. Kumar’s legacy will undoubtedly live on through his timeless films and the impact he made on generations of audiences. His work continues to inspire aspiring filmmakers and actors, solidifying his status as a beloved figure in Indian cinema.
