Veteran Actor Nana Patekar Passes Away at 75 in Goa

Mumbai, Oct 8: Veteran actor Vishwanath Patekar, widely known as Nana Patekar — one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated performers — has passed away at the age of 75 in Goa.

Officials at Manipal Hospital confirmed that he was found unconscious at his Dona Paula residence and rushed to the hospital, where doctors declared him “brought dead”, citing a heart attack as the cause.

The actor was pronounced dead at around 5:20 am. Medical teams at the private hospital attempted to revive him for nearly 45 minutes, but all efforts proved unsuccessful.

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Malhar Patekar, son of the veteran actor, confirmed to local media that Nana Patekar passed away on October 8 at the age of 75.

Born on January 1, 1951, in Maharashtra, Nana carved a niche with his intensity, commanding dialogue delivery, and ability to portray complex, unconventional characters.

He made his Hindi film debut with Gaman in 1978, and soon became one of the most respected performers of his generation.

His breakthrough came with Salaam Bombay! and Parinda, followed by powerful performances in Angaar, Tirangaa, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Khamoshi: The Musical, Yeshwant, Ab Tak Chhappan, Apaharan and Raajneeti.

Equally acclaimed in Marathi cinema and theatre, Nana also directed Prahaar: The Final Attack in 1991. His comic turn as Uday Shetty in the Welcome franchise became a cultural phenomenon, especially among younger audiences.

Other notable works include Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman, Wajood, Hu Tu Tu, Gang, Deewangee, Bhoot, Welcome Back, Natsamrat and The Vaccine War.

Honoured with the Padma Shri in 2013, Nana Patekar won three National Film Awards and numerous other accolades. Beyond cinema, he was deeply involved in social causes, particularly supporting farmers and families affected by agrarian distress.

Despite being one of the industry’s most recognisable faces, Nana maintained a private life.

His passing marks the end of a remarkable four-decade journey in cinema, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable performances and social commitment.

(IANS)