Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid tribute to veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, calling him an icon of Indian cinema.
Expressing his grief on X, PM Modi wrote, "Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, known for his patriotic spirit, which shone through in his films."
PM Modi also highlighted Kumar’s impact on Indian cinema, stating that his films ignited a sense of national pride and would continue to inspire future generations.
Manoj Kumar, famously known as 'Bharat Kumar' for his string of patriotic films such as "Shaheed," "Upkar," and "Purab Aur Paschim," passed away at a Mumbai hospital in the early hours of Friday. He was 87.
A recipient of the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, Kumar was also celebrated for classics like "Do Badan," "Haryali Aur Rasta," and "Gumnaam."