Mumbai: The Indian film industry bid a tearful goodbye to one of its most iconic stars, Padma Shri awardee Manoj Kumar, who passed away at the age of 87 on Friday. The legendary actor breathed his last at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai.
On Saturday, his final rites were conducted with full state honours at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Juhu. His coffin was draped in the Indian tricolour, symbolising his invaluable contributions not only to cinema but also to the cultural fabric of the nation. The ambulance carrying his body was adorned with floral garlands in saffron, white, and green — a fitting tribute to the man who epitomized patriotic cinema.
His wife Shashi Goswami arrived at the cremation ground to attend the last rites, standing strong through the emotional ceremony. Prominent figures from the film fraternity came to pay their final respects to the actor-director who left a lasting impact on generations of cinema lovers.
Renowned filmmaker Subhash Ghai, who was present at the cremation, recalled the pivotal influence Manoj Kumar had on his life. “He was an inspiration for me to become a filmmaker. He used to guide me. We used to meet him. He helped me a lot and gave a lot of suggestions as to how to become a good writer and director,” said Ghai.
Veteran screenwriter and producer Salim Khan, along with his son and actor Arbaaz Khan, as well as megastar Amitabh Bachchan and his son Abhishek Bachchan, were also present at the ceremony to pay homage to the man widely regarded as a patriotic icon of Indian cinema.
Actor Rajpal Yadav, visibly emotional, paid a heartfelt tribute, stating, “He is the Vishwa Kala Ratna of India, he is Bharat Ratna. I salute him and he is a gem of our Bollywood and will always remain a gem.”
Manoj Kumar, affectionately known as “Bharat Kumar” for his unforgettable roles in films like Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, leaves behind a legacy rich with nationalistic pride and cinematic brilliance. As the industry mourns his loss, it also celebrates the life of a man who truly embodied the spirit of India — both on screen and off.
