Panaji: Goa Police have registered an unnatural death case following the death of veteran actor Nana Patekar, who passed away at his residence in Dona Paula on Thursday morning. The case has been registered under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), with investigators examining the circumstances surrounding his death.
According to reports, Patekar was brought to the casualty ward of Manipal Hospital in Bambolim from his home at Ocean Park, Dona Paula. He was declared dead on arrival. Police Sub Inspector Nitin Naik is leading the inquiry, which began after the hospital reported the death to the authorities.
The registration of an unnatural death case does not, by itself, indicate criminal activity. Such proceedings allow authorities to establish the circumstances and cause of a death. Police are pursuing the necessary inquiries, while the reported cardiac arrest remains the immediate medical explanation for the actor’s death.
Dr Shekhar Salkar, head of oncology at Manipal Hospital, told news agency ANI that Patekar had been brought to the hospital in the early hours of Thursday and could not be revived. The doctor said the hospital had to inform the police because the case required medico legal procedures.
Patekar, 75, died on October 8, leaving behind a career that spanned Marathi theatre, parallel cinema and mainstream Bollywood. Known for his intense screen presence, distinctive voice and ability to portray both hard edged and comic characters, he earned recognition as one of Indian cinema’s most versatile performers.
His death prompted an outpouring of grief from fans and members of the film industry. His mortal remains were taken from Goa to his farmhouse in Donje village, near Pune, where his last rites were performed on Thursday night with full state honours. Thousands of admirers gathered to pay their final respects, while political leaders and film personalities attended the funeral.
His son, Malhar Patekar, spoke about carrying forward his father’s ideals and legacy, describing the actor as someone whose achievements would ensure that he remained remembered.
As the police inquiry continues, authorities are expected to establish the precise circumstances surrounding the actor’s death. The investigation remains a procedural step, and any further conclusions will depend on the findings of the authorities.
Patekar is survived by his wife, Neelkanthi Patekar, and son Malhar. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Indian cinema, where his uncompromising performances and unmistakable screen presence left a lasting impression.
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