The National Film Award-winning actor, known for his intense performances in Parinda, Krantiveer, Ab Tak Chhappan and Natsamrat, died after a cardiac arrest at his Goa residence
Mumbai: Veteran actor and filmmaker Nana Patekar died at the age of 75 on Thursday morning after suffering a cardiac arrest at his residence in Goa, marking the end of a career that spanned nearly five decades across Hindi and Marathi cinema.
Patekar was found unconscious at his home in Dona Paula and rushed to Manipal Hospital. Doctors attempted to revive him through continuous cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for around 45 minutes, but their efforts were unsuccessful. He was declared dead at approximately 5.20 am, according to hospital sources.
Born Vishwanath Patekar on January 1, 1951, in Maharashtra, he made his film debut with Gaman in 1978. He subsequently built a reputation for his powerful dialogue delivery, restrained intensity and ability to portray morally complex characters.
His performances in films such as Parinda, Prahaar, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Ab Tak Chhappan and Natsamrat established him as one of Indian cinema’s most recognisable performers. He also won over mainstream audiences through his portrayal of Uday Shetty in the comedy Welcome and its sequel, Welcome Back.
A recipient of three National Film Awards, Patekar was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2013 for his contribution to cinema and the arts.
Beyond acting, he was known for his social work, particularly through the Naam Foundation, which supported farmers and families affected by agrarian distress. His contribution to water conservation and rural welfare was also acknowledged by political leaders following news of his death.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned Patekar’s death, recalling his intensity, individuality and versatility, and saying that the actor had created characters that would be remembered for generations.
Patekar was last seen publicly at a Samraat Club International installation ceremony in Goa four days before his death. His passing leaves behind a body of work that moved between hard-hitting drama, memorable villains, comedy and acclaimed Marathi cinema.
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