87-year-old Manoj Kumar, the Indian actor and filmmaker renowned for instilling a passionate sense of nationalism through movies such as “Upkar” and “Purab Aur Paschim,” passed away on April 4 in Mumbai. His demise was due to a heart attack resulting from cardiogenic shock.
Originally from Abbottabad, which was part of British India (now Pakistan at present), Kumar moved with his family to Delhi following the Partition. After completing his education at Hindu College within Delhi University, he commenced his career in the movie industry during the late 1950s.
Following minor appearances in “Kaanch Ki Gudiya” (1961), “Hariyali Aur Raasta” (1962), and “Woh Kaun Thi?” (1964), Kumar’s portrayal of freedom fighter Bhagat Singh in “Shaheed” (1965) marked him as a formidable dramatic actor. However, it was his work on “Upkar” (1967), a film he both directed and starred in, that was inspired by Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri’s phrase “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan” (hail soldier, hail farmer), which ultimately solidified his screen identity as the embodiment of patriotic cinema.
Known as “India Kumar” due to his dedication to patriotic topics, Kumar persistently delved into the exploration of Indian identity and societal concerns throughout numerous self-directed blockbusters during the 1970s. Movies like “Purab Aur Paschim” (1970), “Shor” (1972), and “Roti Kapda Aur Makaan” (1974) left a lasting impact, combining conventional narratives with incisive social critique.
In 1981, he was the director for the film “Kranti,” which was a multi-starred dramatic production set in the era of India’s struggle for independence and went on to be among the top-earning Indian movies of that decade.
In 1992, Kumar was bestowed with India’s fourth-highest civilian award – the Padma Shri. In 1999, he received the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2015, he was honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, which is considered the highest film honor in our country.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sadness on platform X over the demise of esteemed Indian actor and filmmaker, Manoj Kumar Ji. Known for his fervent patriotism, which was echoed in his movies, Manoj Ji was a beacon of Indian cinema. His work sparked feelings of national pride that will endure, inspiring future generations. My sympathies go out to his family and fans during this difficult time. May peace prevail.
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2025-04-04 11:46