‘Patriot, true legend and an institution’: Tributes pour in for Manoj Kumar

“A close friend", “patriot" and “true cinema legend" is how prominent celebrities, including Dharmendra, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Akshay Kumar and Ajay Devgn remembered veteran actor-filmmaker Manoj Kumar, who died at the age of 87.

The industry veteran, who ruled the box office in the late 1960s and 1970s, had been ailing for a while and passed away at the Kokilaben Ambani Hospital around 3.30 am.

“He was my jigri yaar… We have many memories together. We spent our earlier days in the film industry together," said Dharmendra, who reached Kumar’s residence to pay his last respects.

Hema Malini, who worked with Kumar in films such as Kranti, Dus Numbri and Santosh, said he was a “wonderful filmmaker and friend".

“He was different from any other director. I’m deeply saddened by his death. He used to make commercial films that would have everything — from patriotism, romance to family drama. And he gave such great songs," Malini told PTI.

In a statement, Aamir said Kumar’s films were a great source of learning for him. “Manoj Kumar was not just an actor and film-maker, he was an institution. I have learnt so much watching his films. His films were often based on important social themes which brought him really close to the common man. My heartfelt condolences to his family," he said.

Salman posted on X, “Manoj Kumar Ji… a true legend. Thank you for the unforgettable films and memories."  Akshay he posted on X: “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."

Devgn said Kumar played an important role in his family’s journey in cinema. He recalled that the cinema icon gave Devgn’s late father Veeru Devgan his first break as an action director with Roti Kapda Aur Makaan.

Actor Manoj Bajpayee said Kumar was a “pillar of Hindi cinema". “His art celebrated the spirit of India like no other. Deepest condolences to his family and countless admirers," he added.

Actor-politician Kangana Ranaut said, “He was a legendary artist recognised for his patriotism, and he ignited the spark of patriotism in every individual. The film industry takes immense pride in having had such a talented artist, and we also express our heartfelt condolences."

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