Veteran Actor Manoj Kumar, Known for Patriotic Films, Dies at 87

Indian actor Manoj Kumar, known for his roles in Hindi-language films with patriotic themes, died on Friday aged 87. Kumar, who was also a member of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s governing Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), died in Mumbai due to heart-related complications.

The death of the man dubbed “Bharat” Kumar — a reference to the ancient Sanskrit word for India steeped in Hindu religious symbolism — sparked tributes from across the country. Modi led the condolences, calling Kumar an “icon” of Indian cinema, saying that his works “ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations.”

Born Harikrishan Goswami, he renamed himself in Bollywood tradition — taking on the name Manoj Kumar. Throughout his career, Kumar was known for acting — and at times directing — films that had a focus on unity and national pride.

He was the recipient of several national awards, including the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest honour for cinema. Kumar made his debut in Indian cinema in the late 1950s. He went on to star in several films, many with patriotic themes, including Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Pachhim (1970), and Kranti (1981).