Veteran Bollywood, Hindi and Marathi film actor Nana Patekar has died aged 75 after suffering a cardiac arrest at his home in Goa. Tributes have poured in from across the film industry, with many remembering him as 'one of the finest actors in Indian cinema'.
Details of the Incident
According to sources, Patekar was at home with his nephew Prasad Patekar when he complained of a headache. He was later found unconscious and rushed to hospital. Manipal Hospital said doctors attempted to revive the actor for almost 45 minutes, but he was declared dead at 5.20am. His son, Malhar Patekar, was in Pune and has left for Goa, according to sources.
Career and Legacy
Born on January 1, 1951, in Maharashtra, Patekar established himself as an actor known for his ability to portray complex and unconventional characters. He won three National Film Awards during his career. He was known for his work in films such as Natsamrat, Wajood, Parinda, Ab Tak Chhappan and Yeshwant, among others. He also starred in the critically acclaimed and Oscar-nominated Salaam Bombay!.
Tributes from the Film Industry
Following his death, several figures in the film industry, including Anupam Kher, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Khushbu Sundar and Riteish Deshmukh, expressed grief over his passing. Anupam Kher posted on X: "I received the heartbreaking news that my friend Nana Patekar, one of the finest actors and human beings in Indian cinema, is no more. I will miss you, my friend. Your warmth. Your hugs. Your extraordinary performances. And whenever I miss seeing you, I will watch your films."
Board of Control for Cricket in India Vice President Rajeev Shukla remembered the actor as "An exceptionally compassionate human being." In a post on X, he praised Patekar's acting, as well as his commitment to social service and efforts to transform lives. 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."
Away from his profession, Patekar spent time around farming and social work, a sharp contrast to the fiery actor that fans had come to know.
