Anita Raj Reacts To Manoj Kumar’s Death, Offers Condolences To His Family: 'Truly Heartbreaking'
Legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, best known for his iconic patriotic roles and powerful storytelling, passed away at 87 in Mumbai.
India’s film fraternity and fans are grieving the loss of legendary actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar, who passed away at the age of 87 on April 4, 2025, at Mumbai’s Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. A towering figure in Hindi cinema known for his iconic roles steeped in patriotism, Manoj Kumar’s contributions extended far beyond acting—he was also a celebrated director, writer, and producer. His funeral will be held on April 5, with the industry preparing to bid farewell to one of its most enduring cinematic voices.
Veteran actress Anita Raj, who worked with Kumar in the 1989 film Clerk, was among the first to respond to the heartbreaking news. In a statement to Pinkvilla, she said, “It’s truly heartbreaking to hear about the passing of Manoj Kumar Ji. I had the honor and privilege of working with such a legendary filmmaker. His remarkable contributions to cinema will forever be cherished and remembered. May God grant his family the strength and courage to bear this immense loss. Om Shanti." In Clerk, Kumar not only acted but also wrote, directed, and produced the film—a testament to his multifaceted talent and creative control over his projects. The film featured a powerhouse cast including Rekha, Prem Chopra, Shashi Kapoor, and Mohammad, with Anita Raj sharing memorable screen space alongside the cinema veteran.
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Another industry stalwart, Aruna Irani, also shared an emotional tribute. Speaking to Pinkvilla, she recalled working closely with Kumar on several projects, including the 1967 classic Upkar, one of the earliest full-color films in Indian cinema. “He was a great actor, director, and producer," she said, reflecting on his unmatched dedication to storytelling. “I’ve worked with him in most of his films. His vision and commitment to the craft were unlike anything I’ve seen." Irani spoke of his humility, discipline, and passion, and acknowledged his influence in shaping how patriotic themes were portrayed on screen for generations to come.
Manoj Kumar, often referred to as “Bharat Kumar" for his deeply nationalistic roles, rose to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s with films like Shaheed, Purab Aur Paschim, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, and Kranti. His stories resonated across class and region, portraying the dreams and struggles of a self-reliant India. Through his cinematic lens, patriotism wasn’t just a theme—it was a mission. His storytelling was bold, emotionally charged, and unflinchingly optimistic, making him a voice of the people during a transformative period in Indian history.
Tributes have also poured in from across the political spectrum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences in a heartfelt social media post accompanied by archival photos. “Deeply saddened by the passing of legendary actor and filmmaker Shri Manoj Kumar Ji. He was an icon of Indian cinema, who was particularly remembered for his patriotic zeal, which was also reflected in his films. Manoj Ji’s works ignited a spirit of national pride and will continue to inspire generations," the Prime Minister wrote. “My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti."
Celebrities including Ajay Devgn, Karan Johar, and Akshay Kumar also took to social media to remember the late icon, calling him a “true nationalist of cinema," a “visionary storyteller," and a “man who redefined patriotic filmmaking."
Though his last on-screen appearances came decades ago, Manoj Kumar’s impact remains deeply woven into the fabric of Indian cinema. He was a recipient of several prestigious honors, including the Padma Shri and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest award in cinema. His legacy is not only in the films he made but also in the path he paved for socially conscious cinema that dared to make a difference.
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