Manoj Kumar's demise on April 4, 2025, sent shockwaves across the nation. Recently, pictures from his last rites have emerged online.
Hindi films in India have played a significant role in igniting a sense of patriotism among citizens during turbulent times. It all started when Manoj Kumar, one of the biggest stars in Hindi cinema, made and acted in films that blended patriotism and entertainment. His work was well-received, and his films, Upkaar, Roti, Kapada Aur Makaan, and Purab Aur Paschim, became a massive success. However, the star left for the heavenly abode on April 4, 2025, due to heart complications, leaving fans dismayed. His final rites were held a while ago, and veteran actor, Amitabh Bachchan arrived to pay his last respects.
Manoj Kumar created a new wave of nationalism with his patriotic films when the country grappled with a war and food crisis in the 60s. Also, he ventured into direction at the request of former PM, Lal Bahadur Shastri, who asked him to make a film with his slogan, 'Jai Jawan Jai Kisan'. Consequently, fans were content when the late actor got due credit for his contribution by getting state honours for his final rites. His mortal remains were wrapped in the National Flag and got a gun salute on the occasion.
Manoj Kumar's final rites took place at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Mumbai at 11:30 am in Mumbai. His family, including his sons, were seen along with celebrities like Zayed Khan, Salim Khan, Arbaaz Khan, and Vindu Dara Singh, along with the late actor's long-time friend and former co-star, Prem Chopra. Moreover, Manoj Kumar's wife, Shashi Goswami, was seen getting emotional. For the unversed, Manoj Kumar took his last breath at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital.
Manoj Kumar played a crucial role in several actors' careers, including Amitabh Bachchan, by casting him in Roti, Kapada Aur Makaan. However, when the megastar gave a series of flops at the box office, Manoj suggested including the iconic track, Khaike Paan Banaras Wala, in Don. Given their close bond, Amitabh Bachchan arrived with his son, Abhishek, to pay his last respects to the late actor. The father-son duo wore similar outfits, with white kurta-pajamas and a black Nehru jacket.
Manoj Kumar, was born as Harikrishna Giri Goswami was one the most prominent actors in Hindi cinema who made his debut in 1957 with the film, Fashion but rose to fame with Shaheed, where he played the role of freedom fighter Bhagat Singh. The film began Manoj's journey to make patriotic films like Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, and Kranti. The actor earned the nickname 'Bharat Kumar' for his roles that aroused national pride. He achieved unprecedented success in the 60s and 70s before retiring from acting in 1995.
We hope God gives Manoj Kumar's family immense strength during this painful phase.
Next Read: Celebrity MasterChef: Gaurav Khanna Copied Swiss Chef's Dessert? Netizens Call It 'Embarrassing'