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PM Narendra Modi writes to Manoj Kumar’s wife Shashi Goswami: ‘Will never forget meetings, insightful conversations with him’

In the letter to Shashi Goswami, Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared how Manoj Kumar's patriotic films helped instill love for India in the audience.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expresses his sadness due to Manoj Kumar's passing.

Actor Manoj Kumar passed away on April 4 at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai due to a cardiogenic shock. Since his death, tributes from all over the country have been pouring in, remembering the legendary actor and the legacy he left behind. Among the people who shared their condolences is also Prime Minister Modi, who has written a letter to Kumar’s wife, Shashi Goswami.

“Through the medium of films, veteran actor and director Mr Manoj Kumar portrayed India’s pride in an impactful manner. Many of his films played an important role in strengthening the feeling of nationalism in the minds of the citizens. On one hand, his films gave life to the independence struggle of this country, and on the other, his films also motivated people to create a better tomorrow for their country, said the Prime Minister.

He appreciated Kumar’s contribution to cinema and how the narrative of his films, including the songs, helped create a sense of patriotism. “Based on our traditional Indian values and culture, his many films and many songs talk about dedicating oneself to the country, and they will be remembered and sung forever.”

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“I will never forget the meetings and insightful conversations I had with Mr Manoj Kumar. His passing is a huge loss to the film industry, and I pray to God that he grants all his relatives and well-wishers the strength and patience to bear with this loss,” added the Prime Minister. He had previously posted on X (formerly twitter) paying tribute to the great actor.

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… pic.twitter.com/f8pYqOxol3

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) April 4, 2025

Manoj ‘Bharat’ Kumar was 87 and had reportedly not been keeping well for quite some time. His films transformed the portrayal of patriotic films and characters and galvanised support for the development and evolution of his country. Films like Shaheed, Purab Aur Paschim, Roti Kapada Aur Makaan and Kranti moved audiences and got Kumar the sobriquet of ‘Bharat Kumar’. The actor had famously donated the prize money he received along with the National Award for Shaheed to freedom fighter Bhagat Singh’s family, proving that he could inspire greatness both on and off the screen. The film, based on Bhagat Singh’s life, remains a cult classic.

Narendra Modi letter to Manoj Kumar's wife.

The letter written by the Prime Minister addressed to Shashi Goswami.

The actor will go down as one of the most influential actors of Bollywood, and his legacy is forever cemented in the minds of all those who refuse to forget him even after he is gone.

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