**Manoj Kumar, celebrated for his contributions to Indian cinema, has died at the age of 87 in Mumbai, prompting widespread remembrance and tributes from both fans and fellow artists.**
**Legacy of a Patriot: Manoj Kumar, Bollywood Icon, Passes Away at 87**
**Legacy of a Patriot: Manoj Kumar, Bollywood Icon, Passes Away at 87**
**The influential actor and director, known for his patriotic films that resonated with audiences, leaves behind a lasting legacy.**
Veteran Bollywood actor and director Manoj Kumar has passed away at the age of 87 in Mumbai, succumbing to age-related health complications, according to Dr. Santosh Shetty from Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, where Kumar was receiving care. His son, Kunal Goswami, informed ANI that Kumar had been grappling with health issues for some time.
Renowned as a pioneer of patriotic cinema, Kumar gained prominence in the 1960s and 1970s with iconic films such as "Shaheed," "Roti Kapada Aur Makaan," and "Kranti." Born as Harikrishan Goswami in 1937 in Punjab, he created a unique niche in the Hindi film industry, which resonated deeply with audiences seeking narratives that instilled national pride. Over his illustrious career, Kumar garnered multiple awards, including the prestigious Padma Shri, and was honored with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, recognizing his invaluable contributions to Indian cinema.
His passing has resulted in an outpouring of tributes across social media platforms, reflecting his impact on Indian culture. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored Kumar as an "icon of Indian cinema," emphasizing that his works sparked a sense of national pride that will inspire future generations. Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit mourned his death as a substantial loss for the film industry, expressing that the void left by Kumar's departure will be challenging to fill.
