Veteran actor-director Manoj Kumar left for his heavenly abode today at 3:30 am. His contribution to the Indian cinema and his work have been incredible. After his demise, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to him and also shared an old picture in which they were seen sitting together.
He expressed his grief after his demise and also offered condolences to his family and well-wishers. In his post, PM Modi called him an ‘icon of India cinema’. Remembering Manoj Kumar, PM Modi wrote on X, “Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, who was particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was also reflected in his films. Manoj Ji’s works ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.”
Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, who was particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was also reflected in his films. Manoj Ji's works ignited a spirit of national pride and will… pic.twitter.com/f8pYqOxol3
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025
Apart from acting, he was also a film director, screenwriter, lyricist and editor. In 1992, he was honoured the Padma Shri in 1992 and Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015. He was best known for his roles in Upkar, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, Purab Aur Pachhim, Woh Kaun Thi?, Gumnaam, Kranti, Mera Naam Joker, Patthar Ke Sanam, Shor and many more. He also directed seven movies including Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, Shor and others. His last work in acting was ‘Maidan-E-Jung’ in 1995.
He worked with several veteran actors like Hema Malini, Dilip Kumar, Shashi Kapoor, Parveen Babi, Shatrughan Sinha, Saira Banu, Dharmendra, Sadhna, Asha Parekh, Ashok Kumar, Prem Chopra, Rekha, Mithun Chakraborty, and many more.
