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Last Updated: April 06, 2025, 18:51 IST
Veteran Actor-Director Manoj Kumar Passes Away at 87
On April 4, the film fraternity lost one of its most revered figures, Manoj Kumar, who passed away at 87 due to complications related to aging. His departure marks a profound loss in the Indian film industry, where he played a pivotal role both as an actor and a director.
Manoj Kumar’s final journey commenced with rites held at the Pawan Hans crematorium. The following day, a prayer meeting organized by the Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) attracted numerous celebrities who came together to honor his legacy. Among those in attendance were Aamir Khan, Prem Chopra, Rakesh Roshan, Farhan Akhtar, Esha Deol, Anu Malik, Johnny Lever, Ashutosh Gowariker, Shekhar Suman, and Aruna Irani, all of whom reflected on the profound impact of Kumar’s work in the industry.
The solemn gathering took place in Juhu, Mumbai, from 4 PM to 6 PM, where friends, family, and colleagues paid their final respects to the iconic figure whose contributions to cinema have left an indelible mark. Video footage released by paparazzo Sneh Zala captured Aamir Khan mingling with attendees before proceeding to the prayer area. Rakesh Roshan, accompanied by his wife Pinkie Roshan, as well as other industry stalwarts like Prem Chopra and Shekhar Suman attended the services as well.
Kumar’s wife, Shashi Goswami, was present with their sons and other family members, while Neil Nitin Mukesh and his wife Rukmini Sahay, as well as Honey Irani, also participated in the tribute.
Following his passing, Dharmendra visited Kumar’s residence in Mumbai to express his condolences. Renowned figures such as Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Prem Chopra, and Salim Khan were seen at the funeral, underscoring Kumar’s extensive reach and influence in the film industry.
Prominent stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Ranveer Singh, and Raveena Tandon took to social media to share heartfelt tributes, celebrating the life and career of Manoj Kumar.
Remembered for his work that often highlighted patriotic themes, Kumar’s filmography includes classics such as “Shaheed” (1965), “Upkar” (1967), “Purab Aur Paschim” (1970), and “Roti Kapda Aur Makaan” (1974). He also directed notable films including “Hariyali Aur Raasta”, “Woh Kaun Thi”, “Himalaya Ki God Mein”, “Do Badan”, “Patthar Ke Sanam”, “Neel Kamal”, and “Kranti”. In recognition of his significant contributions to cinema, Kumar was awarded the Padma Shri in 1992 and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 2015, solidifying his status as a cinematic legend.
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