Late actor Manoj Kumar’s mortal remains were consigned to rest with full state honours in Mumbai on Saturday, after his death on Friday due to age-related complications. He was 87 years old. A number of who’s who of the film industry, including Prem Chopra, Raza Murad, Vindu Dara Singh, and Zayed Khan, visited his Mumbai residence to pay their last respects.
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A Grand Farewell with State Honours
An emotional video recorded the police presenting Manoj Kumar state honours as his bier, covered with the tricolour national flag, was taken in procession for the last rites. His funeral cortege, covered in flowers and garlands in Indian flag colours, epitomized the strong patriotism expressed through his movie roles. The tribute testifies to the large legacy he leaves behind in Indian cinema.
Family and Close Friends Say Goodbye
Manoj Kumar’s wife, Shashi, and other near relatives were present to say their emotional goodbyes. A heart-wrenching moment was also caught when actor Zayed Khan touched the feet of Manoj’s wife and comforted his family.
The Legacy of Bharat Kumar
Born Harikrishan Goswami in Abbottabad on July 24, 1937 (in present-day Pakistan), Manoj Kumar rose to become a celluloid icon. Famous for depicting strong, nationalistic characters, he was adoringly tagged as “Bharat Kumar.” His movie trilogy, encompassing Upkar (1967), Purab Aur Paschim (1970), and Shaheed (1965), are milestones of nationalistic cinematic history.
In addition to performing, Manoj Kumar worked as a producer and director too. Upkar, which won the National Film Award for Second Best Feature Film, was his film. Purab Aur Paschim and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974) were critically acclaimed and were box office successes. He was also awarded highly reputed awards like Padma Shri (1992) and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2015).
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