Veteran Actor Nana Patekar Dies at 75

Veteran Actor Nana Patekar Dies at 75

Mumbai, Oct 8: Veteran actor and filmmaker Nana Patekar, one of Indian cinema’s most distinctive performers, died at the age of 75 in Goa on Thursday following a severe cardiac arrest.

Patekar was found unconscious at his residence in Dona Paula in the early hours of Thursday and was taken to Manipal Hospital. Doctors attempted to revive him with CPR for around 45 minutes, but he could not be revived. He was declared dead at around 5:20 am, according to hospital officials. A medico-legal case has been registered and a post-mortem examination is being conducted.

Born Vishwanath Patekar on January 1, 1951, he began his career in theatre before making his Hindi film debut with Gaman in 1978. Over a career spanning nearly five decades, he established himself as a powerful actor in both Hindi and Marathi cinema, known for his intense performances and distinctive dialogue delivery.

His acclaimed performances included films such as Parinda, Krantiveer, Tirangaa, Agni Sakshi, Ab Tak Chhappan, Apaharan and Welcome. He also received the National Film Award for his performances and was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2013.

Patekar also ventured into filmmaking, making his directorial debut with Prahaar: The Final Attack in 1991. Besides acting and filmmaking, he was associated with social causes and was known for his work through Naam Foundation, particularly in support of farmers and rural communities.

His death prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the film industry and public life, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembering him for his “intensity, individuality and unmistakable presence.”(Agencies)