Veteran actor dies of cardiac arrest in Goa at 75; leaves an enduring legacy from theatre to cinema and through social work

Mumbai: Veteran actor Nana Patekar, whose powerful performances, distinctive dialogue delivery and ability to inhabit complex characters made him one of the most recognisable actors in Marathi and Hindi cinema, died of a cardiac arrest in Goa early Thursday. He was 75.

Patekar suffered a severe cardiac arrest at his residence in Dona Paula and was rushed to Manipal Hospital. Doctors reportedly attempted to revive him for around 45 minutes, but their efforts were unsuccessful. He was declared dead at around 5.20 am. His last rites will be performed with full state honours at Donje, near Pune, on Thursday night.

The news of Patekar’s death prompted an outpouring of grief from the film industry, political circles and social organisations. Tributes recalled not only his formidable acting skills and forthright personality but also his engagement with social issues.

An actor forged in theatre

Born Vishwanath Dinkar Patekar, Nana Patekar honed his craft in Marathi theatre before making his mark in Hindi cinema. He made his Hindi film debut with Gaman in 1978 and went on to play a wide range of characters, including protagonists, antagonists and character roles.

His notable films include Ankush, Parinda, Tirangaa, Krantiveer, Prahaar, Agnisakshi, Ab Tak Chhappan, Welcome and Natsamrat.

His performance in Parinda earned him the National Film Award as well as a Filmfare Award. His portrayal in Krantiveer became particularly celebrated, while Natsamrat once again demonstrated the depth and range of his acting.

His contribution to theatre included acclaimed productions such as Purush and Hamidabai Chi Kothi. His acting was distinguished not merely by his powerful voice and dialogue delivery but also by subtle facial expressions, body language and an ability to convey the inner conflicts of his characters.

Social commitment beyond cinema

Patekar’s public life extended beyond acting. In September 2015, he and actor Makarand Anaspure founded Naam Foundation, which worked in drought-hit parts of Maharashtra, supporting water conservation projects, farmers and families affected by farmer suicides.

His involvement in social causes became an important part of his public persona, reflecting his concern for people facing distress and hardship.

Tributes pour in

Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned Patekar’s death and recalled his versatile acting, forthright personality and contribution to both Hindi and Marathi cinema.

Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also expressed grief, saying Patekar had left a lasting impression on Indian cinema and audiences.

Veteran leader Sharad Pawar described Patekar as an extraordinary, sensitive and powerful artist and also recalled his social work through Naam Foundation.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described Patekar as a close friend and recalled his journey from Krantiveer to Natsamrat, as well as his work for farmers. Deputy Chief Ministers Sunetra Pawar and Eknath Shinde also condoled his death. Veteran actor Ashok Saraf expressed disbelief at the sudden loss of his close friend.

State funeral at Donje tonight

Patekar’s mortal remains will be consigned to flames with full state honours at Donje near Pune on Thursday night. His death marks the end of a distinctive acting career that spanned theatre, Marathi cinema and Bollywood.

For generations of audiences, Patekar will be remembered for his intense performances, memorable dialogue delivery and the authenticity he brought to every character. His contribution to cinema and his social initiatives will remain an enduring part of his legacy.