Veteran actor and filmmaker Manoj Kumar was cremated with full state honours on Saturday, a day after he passed away at the age of 87 due to age-related ailments. His final rites were performed by his sons, Vishal and Kunal Kumar, in Mumbai, as the Indian film fraternity and fans mourned the loss of one of Hindi cinema’s most iconic figures.

The funeral procession began at 10:30 am from his residence, with the late actor’s body draped in the national flag and carried in an ambulance adorned with tricolour flowers. The cremation ceremony began around 11:30 am, attended by close family, friends, and notable members of the film industry.

A framed photograph of a young Manoj Kumar was placed at the entrance of his residence for mourners to pay their final respects. Among those present at the cremation were Abhishek Bachchan, Arbaaz Khan, filmmaker Subhash Ghai, music director Anu Malik, actors Zayed Khan, Prem Chopra, and Rajpal Yadav. Several other celebrities, including Dharmendra, Madhur Bhandarkar, Farah Khan, and Sajid Khan, had visited his home earlier to offer condolences.

Widely known as “Bharat Kumar” for his memorable performances in patriotic films such as Upkar, Shaheed, Purab Aur Paschim, and Roti, Kapda Aur Makaan, Manoj Kumar became a symbol of nationalist cinema during the golden era of Bollywood.

Born Harikrishan Goswami in Abbottabad (now in Pakistan) in 1937, Kumar’s family moved to Delhi during the Partition in 1947. He later graduated from Hindu College, University of Delhi, and eventually moved to Mumbai to follow his passion for acting and filmmaking.

His extensive filmography includes critically acclaimed films such as Himalaya Ki God Mein, Do Badan, Patthar Ke Sanam, Hariyali Aur Raasta, and the epic Kranti. Beyond acting, he was also admired for his contributions behind the camera as a director and screenwriter.

Manoj Kumar is survived by his wife, Shashi, and sons Vishal and Kunal. His legacy as a patriotic icon and cinematic visionary will continue to inspire generations to come.