Mumbai: Veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, popularly revered as ‘Bharat Kumar’ for his legendary portrayals of patriotic characters, was cremated with full state honours at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Juhu, Mumbai, today. The solemn ceremony, which commenced around 11:30 AM, saw his sons Vishal and Kunal performing the last rites.
A Life Remembered: From Abbottabad to Bollywood Glory
Born Harikrishan Goswami in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), Manoj Kumar’s family migrated to Delhi after Partition. A graduate of Hindu College, University of Delhi, he rose to national fame with films that were not just box office hits but carried powerful nationalistic themes — a feature still admired by UPSC aspirants and history enthusiasts alike.
The Real Voice of Patriotism in Indian Cinema
Films like Shaheed, Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Kranti earned Manoj Kumar the nickname ‘Bharat Kumar’, a title he carried with dignity. These films weren’t just entertainment — they were lessons in India’s socio-political ethos and embodied the real voice of nationalism for generations of Indians.
Tributes Pour In from Bollywood and Beyond
Manoj Kumar cremated with state honours in the presence of several Bollywood legends. Amitabh Bachchan, screenwriter Salim Khan, and Raj Babbar were among those who paid their final respects. Actor Raj Babbar emphasized Kumar’s unmatched legacy, stating that he “deserved the Bharat Ratna” for his unparalleled contribution to Indian cinema and culture.
A Ceremonial Farewell with Military Salute
The veteran actor’s body was draped in the Tricolour, and the funeral featured a three-gun salute, reflecting his stature as a cultural icon. Such state recognition underlines how deeply Manoj Kumar cremated with state honours resonates as a tribute not just to a film personality, but to a symbol of Indian identity.
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