Haridwar: In a sad ceremony witnessed by close family members, the ashes of renowned Indian actor and director Manoj Kumar were submerged in the holy Ganges River on Saturday morning at Har Ki Pauri in Haridwar. Chants resounded along the riverbanks as the immersion, which took place in the Brahma Kund, was performed in accordance with all Vedic customs.

Along with other family members, Kumar’s sons Kunal and Vishal Goswami took part in the ceremony conducted by the family’s priest.

“The ashes have been immersed in the Ganges, and we pray for the peace of his soul through the blessings of Mother Ganga,” said Kunal Goswami after the ritual.

After a protracted illness, Manoj Kumar, who was born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), died on April 4 at the age of 87. He passed away at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai at 4:03 a.m.

Popular in Indian cinema throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Kumar is affectionately known as “Bharat Kumar” for his iconic depictions of patriotism in films like “Upkar”, “Purab Aur Paschim”, and “Shaheed”.

‘Upkar’, his first film as director, won the 1967 National Film Award for Second Best Feature Film, demonstrating his skill as a producer and director.

‘Purab Aur Paschim’ (1970) and ‘Roti Kapda Aur Makaan’ (1974) were further critically and economically significant directorial successes.

In a letter to Kumar’s wife, Shashi Goswami, Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed his profound sadness at the renowned actor’s passing.

“The legendary actor and filmmaker showcased the pride of India in a powerful way through his films,” the prime minister said. He continued, “His work will continue to inspire generations to work for the country and society.”
On April 5, Manoj Kumar was cremated at the Pawan Hans cremation in Mumbai with state honours.

Several Bollywood celebrities, including Salim Khan, Arbaaz Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, and Abhishek Bachchan, attended the burial.