Manoj Kumar's final rites to be held on April 5: Old friends Dharmendra, Prem Chopra arrive to pay tributes to the late actor

Manoj Kumar death

Legendary actor Manoj Kumar, known for his iconic films and patriotic roles, passed away at the age of 87 in the early hours of Friday. His death has left the film industry and his fans in deep sorrow. As the news spread, many Bollywood celebrities arrived at his residence to pay their final respects, including veteran actors Dharmendra, Prem Chopra and Raveena Tandon.

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Dharmendra, who had worked with Manoj Kumar in the 1962 film Shaadi, also visited the actor’s home to pay his respects. Despite recently undergoing eye surgery, Dharmendra was seen with folded hands, remembering the many moments they shared. He reflected on the days when they first entered the film industry together, expressing gratitude for their enduring friendship. He said, "Hamare bachpan ka sathi tha. I will miss him."

Prem Chopra, who had worked with Manoj Kumar in films like Purab Aur Paschim, Upkar, Kranti, Shaheed and Woh Kaun Thi? to name a few, was also seen arriving at the late actor's residence in Juhu.

Raveena Tandon, who shared a close bond with the veteran actor, was seen outside his Mumbai home, offering condolences. She described Manoj Kumar as a father figure and remembered him fondly. In a heartfelt tribute, Raveena shared that she was honoring him by placing three of his favorite items on him: a Rudraksha mala of Mahakal, Sai Baba’s vibhuti, and the Indian flag. She expressed how Manoj Kumar had always been a source of inspiration, not just for her, but for generations. “He was my Bharat,” she said, recalling the patriotic films he made, which continue to resonate with audiences. She particularly mentioned her favorite song from his film, Jab Zero Diya Bharat, highlighting how much his work meant to her.

Also Read: When Manoj Kumar filed defamation case against Shah Rukh Khan over Om Shanti Om scene and sought Rs 100 crore compensation, said, "They have disrespected me"

Manoj Kumar’s son, Kunal Goswami, confirmed that the actor's last rites will be performed on Saturday, April 5, at 11 AM at Pawan Hans, a crematorium located opposite Nanavati Hospital in Vile Parle, Mumbai. Kunal shared that his father had been unwell for some time but faced his struggles with great courage and dignity. “He peacefully breathed his last by God’s grace and Sai Baba’s blessings,” Kunal said, thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his heartfelt tribute.

In his statement, Kunal also remembered his father’s legacy in cinema. He mentioned that films like Upkar, Purab Aur Paschim, and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan continue to be relevant today, addressing issues that still resonate in society and politics.