From 60 cigarettes a day to 20 years smoke-free: Nana Patekar’s quit-smoking story

Renowned actor Nana Patekar recounted the event that led to his decision to quit smoking after decades of heavy use in a recent interview. The actor revealed that he consumed an average of 60 cigarettes daily, often smoking three packs a day, even while bathing. Smoking had become an integral part of his life, causing social embarrassment as well as health concerns.

Dr Abhinit Kumar, a psychiatrist, explained that strong emotional experiences can trigger an immediate shift in behaviour, even in long-term smokers. Patekar's turning point occurred when his sister lost her only son, and he was smoking a cigarette while coughing. His sister confronted him about his addiction, saying, "What else do I still have left to see?"

This emotional shock prompted Patekar to quit cigarettes permanently, not just for five days, but for the next 20 years.