Veteran Bollywood actor Manoj Kumar passes away at 87, cremation to be held tomorrow morning

According to close family members of the late actor, Manoj Kumar's mortal remains will be kept in Juhu's Vishal Tower for antim darshan. The last rites will be held tomorrow (April 5) morning at Pawan Hans Crematorium.

A family member said: "We are deeply saddened by the passing of our beloved Manoj Kumar Uncle. The funeral procession will leave his residence tomorrow at 11 AM for Pavan Hans Crematorium.."

Filmmaker Ashoke Pandit mourned the demise of the veteran actor and Called it a great loss to the film industry. Ashoke Pandit said, "Sad to inform you all that legendary Dadasaheb Phalke award winner, doyen of Indian film industry, Shri Manoj Kumar ji is no more. He breathed his last at the Kokilaben Hospital in Andheri. "

Manoj Kumar's son Kunal Goswami has also worked in Hindi films. Kunal also did a few movies like Ghungroo and Kalakaar both released in 1983. He was seen opposite Sridevi in Kalakaar and the song Neele Neele Ambar Par, which was picturised on him, is a hit across ages.

Manoj Kumar was born in Abbottabad, (now Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan), in 1937. He was named Harikrishnan Goswami by his parents.

He was seen in many patriotic movies 'Roti, Kapada Aur Makaan'.  Manoj Kumar made his debut in 1957 with the film 'Fashion Brand'. He later got a big break in Kanch Ki Gudiya (1961), where he was seen opposite Sayeeda Khan.

Manoj Kumar's first commercial hit came in 1962 with Hariyali Aur Rasta where he was seen opposite Mala Sinha. It was followed by Shaadi (1962), Dr. Vidya (1962) and Grahasti (1963), all these were hits at the box office.

Later in 1964, Manoj Kumar was seen in Raj Khosla's mystery thriller Woh Kaun Thi? along with Sadhna and it was a major success. The film is still remembered for its superhit songs composed by Madan Mohan, such as 'Lag Jaa Gale' and 'Naina Barse Rimjhim' which were sung by legendary singer Lata Mangeshkar.