{
  "id": 13406043,
  "title": "Nana Patekar's special bond with Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif revealed",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/10/nana-patekars-special-bond-with-pakistan-cricketer-rashid-latif",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-10T12:11:33.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Gulf News",
    "slug": "gulf-news",
    "url": "https://gulfnews.com/sport/cricket/nana-patekars-special-bond-with-pakistan-cricketer-rashid-latif-revealed-1.500705718"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Legendary Indian actor Nana Patekar was beloved for his memorable film performances. However, he also shared a unique bond with former Pakistan cricketer Rashid Latif. After Patekar's passing at 75 on October 8, Latif reminisced about their friendship that started over three decades ago, despite tensions between India and Pakistan. Their connection formed during the 1994 Singer Trophy in Colombo, initiated by Indian cricketers Mohammad Azharuddin and Ajay Jadeja. The two would frequently exchange messages, which grew into more than just a cricket or cinema connection. Latif recalled a funny moment when Patekar received an award in 1998 and jokingly told some Indian players that a Pakistani cricketer had congratulated him, contrasting that with others who hadn't. A teammate of Latif's, Basit Ali, also referred to Patekar as 'Nana' and paid tribute to his warmth and memorable personality both on and off-screen. Patekar's death sparked tributes across the border, with former Pakistani cricketers acknowledging his kindness and generosity.",
  "summary": "Nana Patekar was loved for his memorable performances on the big screen. But the legendary Indian actor also had a special connection with cricket, including an unlikely friendship with former Pakistan wicketkeeper Rashid Latif. Following Patekar's sad demise at the age of 75 on October 8, Latif recalled how their friendship began more than three decades ago and continued despite the tensions…",
  "key_points": [
    "Legendary Indian actor Nana Patekar passed away at 75 on October 8",
    "Former Pakistani cricketer Rashid Latif reminisced about their 30-year friendship",
    "Their bond began in 1994 during Singer Trophy in Colombo"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}