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Legendary actor Manoj Kumar passed away at the age of 87 at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai. The veteran superstar died due to several health-related issues, such as heart-related complications and decompensated liver cirrhosis. He left a legacy in the Hindi film industry. The actor was born on July 24, 1937 in a small town in the North-West Frontier Province named Abbottabad (which is now in Pakistan). The actor made his Bollywood debut with the 1957 movie Fashion, but gained fame after his 1961 movie Kanch Ki Gudiya. Manoj Kumar was often referred to as Bharat Kumar. Here is why!

How Manoj Kumar Became Bharat Kumar Of Hindi Cinema? 

The legendary actor was given the name Bharat Kumar as he worked in several patriotic movies such as Upkar (1967), Shaheed (1967), Purab Aur Pachhim (1970) and Kranti (1981) to name a few. These movies showcased his characters’ love and dedication towards the country. Due to which he earned the name Bharat Kumar, which means ‘son of India’. He was often called Bharat Kumar by media and industry people. 

Earlier, in an interview with The Times Of India, Manoj Kumar stated that he considers Akshay Kumar as his successor in portraying patriotic characters on screen. Kumar said, “I’ve always considered Akshay my successor in portraying patriotism on screen. His recreation of my sequence from ‘Hai Preet Jahan Ki Reet Sada’ in Namaste London was heartfelt and authentic. There’s no one like him when it comes to playing the role of a country-loving Indian.” 

After his passing away, Akshay Kumar paid tribute to the legendary actor on X. He wrote, "I grew up learning from him that there’s no emotion like love and pride for our country. And if we actors won’t take the lead in showing this emotion, who will? Such a fine person, and one of the biggest assets of our fraternity. RIP Manoj Sir. Om Shanti." 

Manoj Kumar Popular Movies 

Manoj Kumar’s notable works include Kranti, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, Purab Aur Paschim, Upkar, Woh Kaun Thi?, Shor, Gumnaam, Shaheed, Himalay Ki God Mein, Patthar Ke Sanam, Hariyali Aur Rasta, Mera Naam Joker, Do Badan, Neel Kamal, Sanyasi, Aadmi and Dus Numbri to name a few. 

Manoj Kumar Awards And Honors 

Throughout his career, he not only acted but also directed. He was also an editor, screenwriter and Lyricist. One film which gave him a massive achievement was his directorial debut movie Upkar (1967). Due to this movie, he also received National Film Award for Second Best Feature Film. He received several honours and accolades such as Padma Shri (1992), Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2016), Kishore Kumar Award (2008) and Raj Kapoor Award (2010). He also received several Filmfare awards in 1968, 1972, 1975 and 1999. Kumar also won the BFJA Awards in 1968 for best dialogues in the movie Upkaar. He also won the Sardar Patel Lifetime Achievement International Award in 2007. 

Also read: Manoj Kumar, Known As 'Bharat Kumar' For His Patriotic Bollywood Movies, Dies At 87