Indian actor and filmmaker Nana Patekar dies at 75

Veteran actor Nana Patekar, renowned for his versatile performances and powerful screen presence, passed away at the age of 75. Patekar, who had an illustrious career spanning Hindi and Marathi films, leaves behind a legacy marked by iconic roles in movies such as "Parinda," "Prahaar: The Final Act," "Tirangaa," "Krantiveer" and "Khamoshi: The Musical."

A recipient of three National Film Awards, multiple Filmfare Awards, the Maharashtra State Film Award, and the prestigious Filmfare Awards Marathi, Patekar also received the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian honor.

The actor's life came to an end during the early hours of October 8, 2026, after he was found unconscious at his Dona Paula apartment near Panaji, Goa. He was promptly taken to a private hospital for medical care. The body was later transferred to the Goa Medical College and Hospital in Bambolim for a postmortem to determine the exact cause of death, as per Dr. Salkar.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant conveyed his deepest condolences, expressing profound shock and sorrow over the loss of the veteran actor. He praised Patekar's remarkable journey across various genres in theatre, Hindi, and Marathi cinema, noting that his powerful performances and distinctive artistry had left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.

Patekar, who had a five-decade-long career in the film industry, drew inspiration from audiences' reactions, famously stating, "If I start yawning during the narration, then it is understood that I won’t do the film."

As a National Award-winning actor, Patekar brought depth and realism to his characters, often engaging with films even at the writing phase. His commitment to storytelling and his ability to connect with audiences were key aspects of his craft, as highlighted by Sayoni Sinha and Anuj Kumar. Nana Patekar's contributions to Indian cinema will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.