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Nana Patekar (Img: Pinterest)
New Delhi: Veteran actor Nana Patekar, one of Indian cinema’s most distinctive performers, died on Thursday morning at the age of 75 after suffering a cardiac arrest at his residence in Dona Paula, Goa. His son Malhar Patekar confirmed the news to local media.
Patekar was found unconscious at his Goa residence and was subsequently taken to a private medical facility. Doctors attempted continuous CPR for around 45 minutes, but he could not be revived. He was declared dead at around 5:20 am. A medico-legal case has been registered and a post-mortem is expected.
Born Vishwanath Patekar in Maharashtra in 1951, the actor began his film career with the 1978 film Gaman. Over the next five decades, he built a reputation for performances marked by intensity, emotional depth and an unmistakable screen presence.
His acclaimed work included films such as Krantiveer, Parinda, Agni Sakshi, Khamoshi and Ab Tak Chhappan. He also won National Film Awards for his performances and received the Padma Shri in 2013.
While Patekar was widely recognised for powerful dramatic performances, he also showcased his comic side in popular films. His portrayal of Uday Shetty in Welcome became one of his most memorable mainstream roles and introduced his distinctive style to a wider generation of viewers.
He remained active in cinema in his later years, appearing in films including Housefull 5 and O' Romeo.
Patekar also had a deep association with the Indian Army. During the 1999 Kargil War, he obtained special permission to serve alongside troops after undergoing extensive military training while preparing for his film Prahaar. He later recalled spending time near the Line of Control and losing around 20 kg during his stint.
His death marks the end of a remarkable career that combined theatre, cinema, direction and social work, leaving behind a legacy that crossed genres and generations.
