KATHMANDU: Veteran Bollywood actor Manoj Kumar, Warmly known as Bharat Kumar for his unforgettable contributions to patriotic cinema, passed away peacefully at the age of 87 on Friday morning at Mumbai’s Kokilaben Hospital. Best known for classics like Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, Kranti, and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, Manoj Kumar’s films echoed deep nationalistic sentiments that resonated with generations of Indians. His son, Kunal Goswami, shared, “He had been unwell for a long time. But by God’s grace, he left us peacefully, without suffering in his final moments.”
The legendary actor had been battling liver cirrhosis and was hospitalized on February 21 as his condition deteriorated. His last rites will be held at 11 a.m. tomorrow at Mumbai’s Pawan Hans crematorium.

A decorated artist, Manoj Kumar won seven Filmfare Awards, with Upkar alone earning him four — for Best Film, Director, Story, and Dialogue. He was honored with the Padma Shri in 1992 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2016 for his lifetime contribution to Indian cinema.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute, remembering him as a “true cinematic visionary and a patriot at heart.”