Bollywood actor and director Manoj Kumar dies at 87

Manoj Kumar, a legendary figure in Bollywood, has sadly passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai, India. He was a well-respected actor and director, known for his patriotic films that resonated with audiences during the 1960s and 1970s. According to Dr. Santosh Shetty from Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Kumar died due to health issues related to aging. His son, Kunal Goswami, informed the ANI news agency that Kumar had been struggling with health problems for quite some time. Following his death, tributes have been pouring in from fans, celebrities, and politicians alike on social media, expressing their sorrow. Prime Minister Narendra Modi referred to him as an 'icon of Indian cinema' and noted that Kumar's works ignited a spirit of national pride that will continue to inspire future generations. Many contemporary actors have also expressed their grief, with Akshay Kumar sharing that he grew up watching Kumar's films, which instilled in him a sense of love and pride for his nation. Ajay Devgn praised Kumar for creating moments that have become part of 'Indian cinema's golden history' and thanked him for inspiring storytellers like himself. Born in 1937 in Punjab, Kumar was originally named Harikrishan Goswami. He made a significant impact in the Hindi film industry with films such as Shaheed, Roti Kapada Aur Makaan, and Kranti. His films often explored themes of patriotism, love for the motherland, the struggles of farmers, and the sacrifices made by India's freedom fighters. Released during a time when India was still dealing with the effects of nearly 200 years of British rule, his films struck a chord with audiences. Kumar was affectionately known as 'Bharat Kumar' by his fans and peers, a name that reflected his deep connection to his country. His popularity continued into the 21st century, with fans often sharing clips of his patriotic speeches as viral memes, further solidifying his status as a beloved figure in Indian cinema. Throughout his career, Kumar received numerous accolades, including the Padma Shri, which is the fourth highest civilian award in India. His contributions to the film industry were also recognized with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the highest honor in Indian cinema.