Film personalities pay tributes to Manoj Kumar, Prem Chopra says he never compromised with quality of film shots

ANI April 5, 2025 313 views

Legendary actor Manoj Kumar, fondly known as "Bharat Kumar", was cremated with state honours in Mumbai, marking the end of an iconic cinematic era. Prominent Bollywood personalities like Prem Chopra, Subhash Ghai, and Anu Malik paid heartfelt tributes to his unwavering commitment to quality filmmaking and national pride. Kumar's films, including 'Upkar' and 'Shaheed', significantly shaped patriotic cinema in India, inspiring generations. His legacy transcends entertainment, representing a profound narrative of national unity and cultural inspiration.

"He never used to compromise while making films" - Prem Chopra
Mumbai, April 5: The Indian film industry came together to bid a final farewell to one of its most beloved cinematic icons, Manoj Kumar. His funeral took place on Saturday at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai.

Key Points

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Bollywood pays emotional tribute to iconic patriotic cinema legend

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State honours mark final farewell to Manoj Kumar

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Industry leaders recall his uncompromising filmmaking approach

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Kumar's films embodied national pride and unity

The legendary actor and director, known for his strong portrayal of patriotic characters, was laid to rest with state honours.

Several notable figures from the industry expressed their deep admiration for Kumar's uncompromising dedication to his craft.

Actor Prem Chopra, who worked alongside Kumar in several films, including 'Shaheed' (1965), shared his heartfelt tribute and said, "I was with him from the beginning... He had a passion... He never used to compromise while making films... Crores of rupees may be spent, but the shot should be exactly what he wanted."

Filmmaker Subhash Ghai also spoke fondly of Kumar, revealing that the late star had inspired him to become a filmmaker.

"He was an inspiration for me to become a filmmaker. He used to guide me and give me suggestions on how to become a good writer and director," said Ghai.

Music composer Anu Malik echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging Kumar's significant contributions to both cinema and society.

"Whatever films he has made, he has made them for the benefit of society and the country," Malik said, adding, "Such people do not come again and again in this world. We should take inspiration from Manoj Kumar's films, his songs, and his direction."

The funeral was attended by prominent Bollywood figures, including Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek Bachchan, Salim Khan and Arbaaz Khan.

The father-son duo of Amitabh and Abhishek were seen with family and close friends, offering their final respects. The actor's mortal remains, draped in the Indian tricolour, were escorted to the crematorium with an ambulance decorated in tricolour flowers, symbolizing his deep connection to India's patriotic spirit.

Manoj Kumar, born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), became one of the most iconic actors of Indian cinema.

Known affectionately as "Bharat Kumar," Kumar's portrayal of nationalistic characters in films like Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Shaheed (1965) shaped the genre of patriotic cinema in India.

Kumar's impact went beyond acting. As a director and producer, his works like Upkar won national acclaim, with his directorial debut earning the National Film Award for Second Best Feature Film.

His films not only entertained but also instilled a sense of pride and unity in the nation.

Manoj Kumar's death at the age of 87 on April 4, 2025, following age-related health complications, has left the nation in mourning.

Tributes from political leaders and celebrities have poured in, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praising Kumar for his ability to inspire national pride and patriotism through his work.

Reader Comments

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Rahul S.
A true legend of Indian cinema! His patriotic films shaped my childhood. That scene from Upkar where he refuses foreign liquor still gives me chills. 🇮🇳 Rest in peace, Bharat Kumar!
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Priya M.
My grandfather used to tell me stories about how Manoj Kumar's films brought entire villages together. His movies weren't just entertainment - they were life lessons wrapped in cinema. We've truly lost a gem today.
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Amit K.
While I admire his patriotism, I wish his female characters had more agency. His films were groundbreaking in many ways, but the women were often just supporting characters to the male hero's journey. Still, an irreplaceable icon of Indian cinema.
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Sunita R.
The way he carried the tricolor in his films - with such pride and dignity! 😢 Today's actors could learn so much from his commitment to meaningful cinema. That generation of actors had a different kind of dedication.
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Vikram D.
Prem Chopra's words say it all - "Crores may be spent but the shot should be right." That's the kind of artistic integrity we rarely see today. His films were technically brilliant AND emotionally powerful.
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Neha P.
Watching Purab Aur Paschim with my family during Independence Day was our tradition. His movies taught us to love our culture without hating others. That balance is what made him special. 🌸

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Manoj Kumar Bollywood Patriotic Cinema Indian Film Industry Prem Chopra Subhash Ghai Amitabh Bachchan
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