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Manoj Kumar funeral: Celebrities comfort family as "Bharat Kumar" wraps his last trip in the national flag

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The legendary actor Manoj Kumar, fondly remembered as *‘Bharat Kumar’* for his patriotic roles in iconic films like *Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim*, and *Roti Kapda Aur Makaan*, was laid to rest with full state honours in Mumbai today. The veteran actor, who passed away at 87 after a prolonged illness, was wrapped in the Indian tricolour—a fitting tribute to a man who became synonymous with nationalism in Indian cinema.  

A Nation Bids Farewell to Its ‘Bharat’
 
Manoj Kumar’s funeral procession was a sombre yet dignified affair, attended by family members, close friends, and several Bollywood personalities. The sight of his mortal remains draped in the national flag was a poignant reminder of his lifelong association with patriotic storytelling. Known for his intense performances and films that celebrated Indian values, Kumar’s demise marks the end of an era in Hindi cinema.  

Bollywood Mourns the Loss of an Icon
  
Several film industry veterans, including Amitabh Bachchan, Dharmendra, and Anupam Kher, paid their respects at his residence and cremation ground. Bachchan, who shared screen space with Kumar in *"Kalyug Aur Ramayan"*, tweeted, *“Manoj Kumar ji was not just an actor but a symbol of India’s cinematic pride. His contribution to films and patriotism will never be forgotten.”* Dharmendra, visibly emotional, was seen consoling Kumar’s grieving family, while veteran actress Asha Parekh recalled his disciplined yet warm persona off-screen.  

From Harikishan Giri Goswami to ‘Bharat Kumar’
 
Born Harikishan Giri Goswami in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan) in 1937, Manoj Kumar migrated to India during Partition and later adopted his screen name inspired by Dilip Kumar’s character in *Shabnam*. However, it was his portrayal of *Bharat* in *Upkar* (1967)—a film inspired by then-PM Lal Bahadur Shastri’s slogan *“Jai Jawan Jai Kisan”*—that immortalized him as the face of Indian patriotism in cinema. His directorial ventures, including *Kranti* (1981), further cemented his legacy as a filmmaker who blended entertainment with nationalistic fervour.  


Political Tributes Pour In
  
Beyond Bollywood, political leaders also expressed their condolences. PM Narendra Modi hailed him as *“a cultural ambassador who brought India’s ethos to the silver screen,”* while Congress leader Rahul Gandhi recalled how Kumar’s movies *“united the country during turbulent times.”* The Maharashtra government offered full state honours for his last rites, acknowledging his contribution to Indian arts and culture.  

A Legacy That Will Live On

Manoj Kumar’s films were more than just movies—they were reflections of India’s socio-political landscape. Whether it was *Purab Aur Paschim* critiquing Western influence or *Roti Kapda Aur Makaan* highlighting economic struggles, his cinema resonated with the masses. Even today, dialogues like *“Hindustan zindabad tha, zindabad hai, aur zindabad rahega”* (*Upkar*) evoke nostalgia and pride.  

The Final Salute

As the bugle played and the tricolour was handed over to his family, the ceremony concluded with a 21-gun salute—an honour usually reserved for armed forces personnel and national dignitaries. The gesture underscored how Manoj Kumar, through his art, served the nation in his own extraordinary way. His son, Kunal Goswami, thanked the government and fans for their overwhelming support during this difficult time.  

Conclusion: The End of a Cinematic Era

Manoj Kumar’s passing leaves a void in Indian cinema, but his legacy as *‘Bharat Kumar’* will endure. In an age where patriotism is often reduced to sloganeering, his films remain timeless lessons in love for the nation. As Bollywood and India mourn, his immortal dialogue from *Upkar* rings truer than ever: *“Deshbhakti koi fashion nahi, imaan hai”* (Patriotism isn’t a fashion, it’s faith).**

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