Mumbai, Apr 04 (UNI) Maharashtra State Deputy Chief Ministers Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde on Friday paid tribute to veteran actor Manoj Kumar who passed away in Kokilaben Ambani hospital here.
Pawar in his condolence message stated, "With the demise of veteran actor, director and ‘Bharat Kumar’, a great era in Indian cinema has come to an end."
Pawar said, "Veteran actor Manoj Kumar instilled patriotism in the minds of the people through patriotic films. With films like ‘Upkaar’, ‘Roti Kapda Aur Makaan’, ‘Kranti’, he powerfully presented the reality of society and his loyalty to the country. The patriotism in his acting and direction is still ingrained in the minds of the audience. His contribution to Indian cinema is invaluable and his place can never be filled. Manoj Kumar, a recipient of the ‘Dadasaheb Phalke’ and ‘Padma Shri’ awards, was an inspiration to many budding artists."
With his death, Hindi cinema has lost a senior and great artist, he added.
Mere Desh Ki Dharti, A Watan A Watan Hum Ko Teri Kasam, on whom one after another great patriotic songs were filmed, Shinde expressed the feeling that a true son of India has been lost with the demise of veteran producer, screenwriter, director, actor Manoj Kumar, everyone's 'Bharat Kumar'.
In his condolence message, Shinde said, "During his acting career, Manoj Kumar played the lead role in various films like Shaheed, Purab Aur Paschim, Himalaya Ki God Mai, Hariyali Aur Rasta, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan, Kranti."
He made a sincere effort to instill patriotism, the issues of farmers and laborers, and the feeling of Indianness in the minds of the countrymen through his films.
"The freedom we got was obtained through the sacrifices of the revolutionaries, and so that we would never forget them, he made people aware of them through his art."
"This true artist, who considered India as a sacred land, has rested forever in the bosom of India today," added Shinde.
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