Panaji: Veteran actor Nana Patekar died at 75 on Thursday after suffering a cardiac arrest at his residence in Goa. Maharashtra has announced that the actor will be accorded a state funeral, while tributes have poured in from political leaders and film personalities across the country.
Patekar was found unresponsive at his home in Dona Paula, Goa, in the early hours of October 8. He was taken to Manipal Hospital, where doctors attempted CPR for around 45 minutes. He could not be revived. Reports said a medico legal procedure and post mortem were initiated following his death.
Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar announced that Patekar would receive a state funeral in recognition of his contribution to Marathi theatre and both Marathi and Hindi cinema. His final rites are scheduled to take place at Donaje village near Pune, according to officials cited by news agencies.
The announcement came as tributes began pouring in from across the political spectrum.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered Patekar for his “intensity, individuality and unmistakable presence,” saying his contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema was immense. Modi also praised the actor’s versatility and his willingness to express his views frankly.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described Patekar’s death as a major loss and recalled not only his acting career but also his social work. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, who shared a close friendship with the actor, also paid an emotional tribute, highlighting Patekar’s work for rural Maharashtra, water conservation and farmers. NCP leader Sharad Pawar was among the other political figures who mourned his passing.
The film fraternity was equally shaken. Riteish Deshmukh described Patekar’s death as “the end of an era” and thanked him for his guidance, conversations and personal warmth. Actor Akshay Kumar also remembered him as an exceptionally talented and authentic performer.
Born Vishwanath Patekar, Nana began his journey in theatre before entering films with Gaman in 1978. His career included memorable performances in Parinda, Prahaar, Krantiveer, Khamoshi: The Musical, Ab Tak Chhappan, Rajneeti, Welcome and the Marathi classic Natsamrat. He won three National Film Awards and received the Padma Shri in 2013.
For generations of viewers, Patekar was more than a familiar face on screen. His distinctive voice, intense performances and outspoken personality made him one of Indian cinema’s most recognisable actors. His death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Marathi and Hindi cinema.
ALSO READ: Veteran Actor Nana Patekar Dies At 75 Due To Cardiac Arrest
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