Veteran actor Anupam Kher visited the residence of late actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar in Mumbai to pay his heartfelt respects following the legendary artist’s passing on April 4. Taking to Instagram, Anupam shared emotional moments from the visit, remembering Kumar’s immense contribution to Indian cinema and the nation.
A Visit Filled with Respect and Gratitude
In the photos shared on Instagram, Anupam Kher is seen standing solemnly in front of a large portrait of Manoj Kumar, offering a traditional tribute with folded hands and a bowed head. Dressed in a blue shirt and jeans, Anupam was accompanied by Kumar’s son, Kunal Goswami, in some of the images. He captioned the post: Met #ManojKumar Ji’s friends and family!! And paid my tribute! Thank you #Manoj Ji for your contribution in my life! Both as an actor/director and as an Indian! Jai Hind! ❤️ #Bharat #Patriot.”
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Fans poured in with tributes in the comments, calling Kumar a “true patriot” and remembering him fondly through his impactful roles and films.
Remembering a Legend: “Bharat Kumar”
Manoj Kumar, born Harikrishan Goswami on July 24, 1937, in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan), was a towering figure in Indian cinema. Nicknamed “Bharat Kumar”, he was best known for his deeply patriotic roles in films like Shaheed, Upkar, and Purab Aur Paschim. These films not only earned him immense popularity but also established him as the cinematic embodiment of Indian nationalism during the 1960s and 1970s.
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Kher had earlier posted a video sharing how Kumar’s films shaped his childhood and love for the nation.
“The first film I saw in my life, which I remember very well, was Upkar… Manoj Kumar ji has a huge contribution in awakening the spirit of patriotism in my heart,” he recalled.
A Cinematic Legacy That Lives On
Apart from his stellar acting, Manoj Kumar made his mark as a director and producer. His directorial debut, Upkar (1967), won the National Film Award for Second Best Feature Film. He followed it up with classics like Purab Aur Paschim (1970) and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan (1974), both critically acclaimed and commercially successful.
Manoj Kumar passed away at 4:03 am on April 4 at Mumbai’s Kokilaben Hospital, after a prolonged illness. His legacy as a patriot, actor, and filmmaker continues to inspire generations.