Award-winning Indian actor Nana Patekar has died unexpectedly at the age of 75. The distinguished performer and director succumbed to a heart attack at his residence in Goa.
He was at his property with his nephew Prasad Patekar, according to reports, when he began experiencing a severe headache. He was subsequently discovered unresponsive and transported urgently to hospital.
Hospital confirmation
Manipal Hospital confirmed that medical staff battled to revive the 75-year-old for nearly 45 minutes, but he was pronounced dead at 5.20am.
Patekar's son, Malhar Patekar, was in Pune and has departed for Goa, according to reports.
Career and recognition
The performer was born on January 1, 1951, in Maharashtra. He built a reputation as a thespian celebrated for his capacity to embody intricate and unconventional roles, securing three National Film Awards throughout his career.
He was recognised for his performances in productions including Natsamrat, Wajood, Parinda, Ab Tak Chhappan and Yeshwant, amongst others.
Tributes and legacy
In the wake of his death, numerous figures from the entertainment world, including Neil Nitin Mukesh, Khushbu Sundar and Riteish Deshmukh, have voiced their sorrow at his loss.
Board of Control for Cricket in India Vice President Rajeev Shukla has paid tribute to the actor as "an exceptionally compassionate human being." The Vice President also lauded Patekar's performances, alongside his dedication to charitable work and endeavours to change lives, in a message on X.
He wrote: "Beyond the world of films, his selfless commitment to social service and his efforts to transform lives have touched countless people. May his soul rest in eternal peace. My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and countless admirers."
Outside of his career, Patekar devoted himself to agriculture and charitable endeavours. This presented a stark difference to the passionate performer that audiences had grown familiar with.
