Mumbai: Renowned Bollywood actor Nana Patekar has reportedly passed away today. It is being claimed that he died following a cardiac arrest. He was reportedly found unconscious in his room and was subsequently taken to a hospital. After attempts to revive him proved unsuccessful, his death was confirmed. Several film personalities and political leaders have expressed grief over his reported demise.
Veteran actor Vishwanath Patekar, popularly known as Nana Patekar in the film industry and a recipient of National Film Awards, reportedly died at the age of 75 on Thursday at his residence in Goa following a cardiac arrest. According to sources, he was found unconscious at his home in Goa and was immediately rushed to a hospital. However, despite the doctors’ best efforts, he could not be revived.
Nana Patekar was regarded as one of the most distinguished actors in Hindi and Marathi cinema. Through his distinctive acting style, powerful dialogue delivery and exceptional emotional expression, he carved out a unique place for himself on the silver screen. Over a remarkable career spanning several decades, he portrayed a wide variety of challenging roles. His memorable films include Parinda, Krantiveer, Ab Tak Chhappan, Natsamrat and Welcome.
In recognition of his contribution to cinema, he received several honours, including three National Film Awards. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Speaker of the Lok Sabha and leaders from various political parties reportedly expressed profound grief over his death. Bollywood personalities also mourned the loss.
From serious lead roles to antagonists, police officers and comic characters, Nana Patekar demonstrated his remarkable versatility as an actor. Beyond the glamour of the silver screen, his life was also marked by social service. He was particularly active in addressing issues affecting farmers and rural communities in Maharashtra and participated in various charitable initiatives to help people facing financial difficulties.
His personal life, too, was marked by its share of ups and downs. Nana Patekar married Neelakanti Patekar in 1978. The couple had two sons, Durvasa and Malhar. Their elder son, Durvasa, passed away at a young age due to an illness. Later, owing to personal differences, Nana Patekar and Neelakanti lived separately for several years, although their marriage remained legally intact.
News of Nana Patekar’s reported demise has plunged the film fraternity into mourning, leaving countless fans grief-stricken. His contribution to Indian cinema, marked by his distinctive voice, exceptional dialogue delivery and realistic acting, will be remembered for many years to come.