Veteran Indian Actor Nana Patekar Dies at 75
Nana Patekar, a celebrated Indian actor and filmmaker known for his intense screen presence and contributions to Marathi and Hindi cinema, has died at the age of 75. He was found unconscious at his home in Goa on Thursday and could not be revived despite medical intervention. Patekar, a three-time National Film Award winner, was also recognized for his social activism, particularly regarding farmer welfare. Tributes from political and film industry figures have followed the announcement of his passing.
Key points
- Nana Patekar died at age 75 in Goa after suffering a cardiac arrest.
- He was a three-time National Film Award winner known for his intense acting style.
- Patekar was a prominent figure in both Marathi and Hindi cinema and theatre.
- He co-founded the Naam Foundation in 2015 to support farmer welfare and water conservation.
- State honors were held for his funeral in Pune.
What happened
Nana Patekar, a veteran of Indian cinema, died on Thursday at the age of 75. He was discovered unconscious at his residence in Goa during the early hours of the morning. Dr. Shekhar Salkar of Manipal Hospital reported that despite 45 minutes of continuous CPR, the actor could not be revived and was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.
The actor's remains were transported to Pune, where he was cremated with full state honors at his farm in Donje village.
Reaction
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi led tributes, describing Patekar as a versatile artist whose work would remain etched in memory. Bollywood figures also expressed their condolences; Shah Rukh Khan referred to him as a mentor and friend, while Anupam Kher praised his warmth and extraordinary talent.
His son, Malhar, told reporters that his father's commitment to social welfare would continue to live on.
Background
Patekar began his career in theatre before making his film debut in 1978. He gained widespread recognition for his role in the 1989 film Parinda, which earned him his first National Film Award. Throughout his career, he was noted for his ability to portray diverse characters, ranging from gangsters to policemen, and for his distinctive, rasping voice.
Beyond his artistic career, Patekar was known for his outspoken criticism of government policies and his advocacy for farmers. In 2015, he co-founded the Naam Foundation. His career also faced controversy in 2018 when actor Tanushree Dutta alleged sexual harassment against him; Patekar denied the claims, and he was cleared in 2019 after police found insufficient evidence.
Why it matters
Nana Patekar was a significant cultural figure in India, bridging the gap between mainstream commercial cinema and serious theatre while maintaining a high-profile role in social activism.
What we know
- Nana Patekar died at age 75 in Goa.
- Medical professionals attributed his death to cardiac arrest.
- Patekar won three National Film Awards during his career.
- He co-founded the Naam Foundation in 2015.
