Veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, widely known for his patriotic roles and iconic contributions to Indian cinema, passed away at the age of 87 on Friday. He breathed his last at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, where he had been undergoing treatment since February 21 due to age-related health complications.
Bollywood superstar Salman Khan took to social media to express his grief and pay tribute to the late legend. Sharing a heartfelt message on his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Salman wrote, “Manoj Kumar Ji… a true legend. Thank you for the unforgettable films and memories….” His words resonated with fans, as Manoj Kumar—fondly referred to as Bharat Kumar for his patriotic portrayals—left behind a lasting cinematic legacy.
Salman Khan’s Connection with Manoj Kumar
Salman Khan’s father, renowned screenwriter Salim Khan, had collaborated with Manoj Kumar on the 1981 historical epic Kranti. During the trailer launch of the documentary Angry Young Men, which celebrates the legendary writer duo Salim-Javed, Salman recalled an interesting anecdote about Kranti.
He revealed, “So, I just want an interview with Mr Manoj Kumar. He is taking away the credit from Salim-Javed and saying he has written it.”
Farhan Akhtar, son of veteran lyricist Javed Akhtar, playfully added, “Did he? Then we will have a separate documentary for Manoj Ji.”
Javed Akhtar also chimed in, acknowledging Manoj Kumar’s contribution and saying, “I think it’s very, very honest of him that he has made this confession.”
Salman further commented, “It’s a fact. He says that I used to write and read it to them. But he did write it.”
Directed by Manoj Kumar himself, Kranti boasted an ensemble cast, featuring cinematic stalwarts such as Dilip Kumar, Shashi Kapoor, Hema Malini, Shatrughan Sinha, and Parveen Babi.
Film Fraternity Pays Homage
Following the news of Manoj Kumar’s passing, tributes poured in from across the Indian film industry. Celebrities including Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Anupam Kher, Sunny Deol, Akshay Kumar, Ajay Devgn, Farah Khan, and Farhan Akhtar shared their condolences and remembered the veteran actor’s invaluable contributions to Bollywood.
With a career spanning decades, Manoj Kumar left an indelible mark on Indian cinema with timeless classics like Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan. His influence as an actor, writer, and director continues to inspire generations of filmmakers and actors.
Sources By Agencies
