Manoj Kumar, Iconic Patriotic Actor, Honored with State Funeral

Farewell to a Legend

Manoj Kumar, affectionately known as 'Bharat Kumar' for his iconic roles in patriotic films like Upkar and Kranti, was laid to rest with full state honors and a three-gun salute on Saturday.

Film producer and screenwriter Salim Khan

Notable figures from the film industry, including megastar Amitabh Bachchan and veteran screenwriter Salim Khan, gathered at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Juhu to pay their respects.

The funeral rites commenced around 11:30 am, with Kumar's sons, Vishal and Kunal, lighting the pyre for their father, who passed away on Friday at the age of 87 due to age-related health issues at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital.

Among those who attended were Raj Babbar, Abhishek Bachchan, Jimmy Sheirgill, Arbaaz Khan, Subhash Ghai, Anu Malik, Zayed Khan, Prem Chopra, Rajpal Yadav, Ranjeet, and Sunil Darshan.

Following the ceremony, Bachchan and Khan, accompanied by their sons, extended their condolences to Kumar's family.

Prem Chopra, who starred alongside Kumar in several films, expressed his deep friendship with the late actor, reminiscing about their journey together in the film industry.

"We have been together since the beginning; it has been a remarkable journey. Everyone who worked with him gained something valuable. I certainly did," Chopra reflected.

He also mentioned how audiences still reach out to him when 'Shaheed' airs on television, highlighting Kumar's impact on his career.

Raj Babbar shared a heartfelt memory of seeking Kumar's blessings before starting his 1999 film, Shaheed Udham Singh.

"The Indian film industry has lost a true gem. He brought honor to our nation and showcased the dignity of India to the world," Babbar stated.

At Kumar's home in Juhu, a youthful photograph of the actor was displayed at the entrance for visitors to pay their final tributes.

The ambulance carrying Kumar's remains, adorned with tri-color flowers, left for the crematorium at 10:30 am. His body was draped in the Indian flag, a fitting tribute to an actor who often highlighted themes of nationalism in his films.

Known as 'Bharat Kumar' by his fans, he starred in numerous patriotic films, including Shaheed, Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Roti, Kapda aur Makaan.

Born Harikrishan Goswami in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Kumar's family relocated to Delhi in 1947, coinciding with India's independence.

His filmography also includes notable titles like Himalaya Ki God Mein, Do Badan, Patthar Ke Sanam, and Kranti.

He is survived by his wife Shashi and their two sons.