Legendary Indian Actor Nana Patekar Dies at 75

Nana Patekar speaking at press conference

Veteran Bollywood star Nana Patekar, 75, succumbed to a cardiac arrest in Goa. His death was confirmed late Thursday after hours of CPR failed.

He earned three National Film Awards and was revered for playing volatile characters. Patekar’s roles spanned Hindi and Marathi cinema.

Patekar started in theatre, then broke into film with his 1978 debut. The 1989 role in Parinda earned him his first National Award.

Later he portrayed major roles in Prahaar, Tirangaa, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi and Khamoshi, showing a wide range.

Acting was complemented by activism; he formed the Naam Foundation in 2015 to aid farmers and water conservation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised his versatility and outspoken personality on X. Fellow actors such as Akshay Kumar honored his intensity.

The Maharashtra government announced a funeral with state honours at his farmhouse in Pune.

Patekar faced a #MeToo allegation in 2018; an investigation cleared him in 2019 after lack of evidence.

His legacy includes iconic dialogues still quoted across India, and his unique rasp remains a lasting public memory.

Nana Patekar’s impact on Indian cinema and theatre is enduring, with fans mourning a profound loss.