Mumbai, April 5: India bid a heartfelt farewell to one of its most cherished cinematic icons, Manoj Kumar, as his last rites were performed on Saturday, April 5, with full state honors. The legendary actor and director, famed for his portrayal of strong patriotic characters, was laid to rest at the Vile Parle crematorium, where he was given a Guard of Honour, marking the end of an era in Indian cinema.
Born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Kumar earned the affectionate title of "Bharat Kumar" for his iconic roles in nationalistic films. His contributions to Indian cinema through classics such as Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Shaheed (1965) are etched in the hearts of the public, shaping the nation’s cinematic identity with their patriotic fervor.
The funeral procession was a poignant yet celebratory occasion, with Kumar's coffin draped in the Indian tricolour as a tribute to his lifelong legacy of patriotism. The ambulance carrying his mortal remains was adorned with flowers in the tricolour, symbolizing his deep connection to India. Family, friends, celebrities, and admirers gathered at the cremation ground in Juhu to pay their respects and witness his final darshan.
"He was an artist who carried Hindustan in his heart. On behalf of my family and the Maharashtra government, I offer my heartfelt tribute to him," said Sarnaik.
Manoj Kumar passed away on April 4 at the age of 87, leaving behind a monumental legacy in Indian cinema. His films, known for their themes of national pride, sacrifice, and unity, resonated deeply with audiences across generations.
Beyond his remarkable acting career, Kumar also made significant contributions as a director and producer. His directorial debut, Upkar, won the National Film Award for Second Best Feature Film, while other films like Purab Aur Paschim and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974) were both critically acclaimed and commercially successful.
Throughout his illustrious career, Kumar was honored with several prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri in 1992 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015, recognizing his immense contributions to Indian cinema.
