Akshay Kumar Reflects on the Patriotic Legacy of Manoj Kumar

Actor Akshay Kumar has shared a heartfelt tribute to legendary actor Manoj Kumar, reflecting on the significant lessons he learned from the iconic star. Affectionately known as ‘Bharat Kumar,’ Manoj Kumar was celebrated for his patriotic films that instilled love and pride for the nation. Akshay Kumar expressed how deeply Manoj Kumar’s work influenced him, teaching him the unparalleled value of patriotism.

Taking to his X handle, the Airlift star posted a heartfelt message alongside a black-and-white photograph of the late actor. He wrote, “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.”

The news of Manoj Kumar’s passing has sent waves of sorrow across the Indian film industry. He passed away on Friday at the age of 87 at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. Admitted on February 21, 2025, his health had significantly declined in recent months. Tributes have been pouring in from fans, celebrities, and industry members, all commemorating his immense contributions to Indian cinema.

Lyricist Manoj Muntashir echoed Akshay Kumar’s sentiments, expressing gratitude for the patriotism Manoj Kumar inspired in him. In his tribute, he wrote, “The first lesson of patriotism was taught by your films. Love for India is something I learned from Bharat Kumar. If it weren’t for you, that spark wouldn’t have existed, which led my humble pen to write Teri Mitti. Goodbye, my hero!”

Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri also paid homage, describing Manoj Kumar as “India’s first truly original and committed Indic filmmaker.” Agnihotri emphasized the director’s unique ability to make nationalism poetic and cinema deeply rooted in Indian values. “Patriots and artists like him never die. They simply transcend into memory, into celluloid, into the nation’s heartbeat,” he wrote.

Manoj Kumar’s remarkable contributions to cinema and his unyielding portrayal of patriotism continue to inspire generations of artists. His legacy as a proud nationalist and visionary filmmaker cements his place in the heart of Indian cinema forever.