Veteran Actor Nana Patekar Dies at 75 After Cardiac Arrest in Goa
Veteran Indian actor Vishwanath “Nana” Patekar died at 75 following a cardiac arrest at his Goa residence, according to multiple reports. The actor was found unconscious by medical personnel who arrived after he complained of chest pain, and despite 45 minutes of cardiopulmonary resuscitation, he was declared dead early Thursday, news agency ANI reported, citing Dr. Shehkar Salkar, head of oncology at Manipal Hospital in Goa. A medico-legal case has been registered, with a post-mortem examination scheduled.
Patekar Earns Awards over 48 Year Career
Patekar’s 48-year career began with the 1978 film Gaman, and he gained widespread recognition for roles such as the gangster Anna in Parinda (1989), which earned him a National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor. He later won Best Actor for Krantiveer (1994) and Best Supporting Actor for Agni Sakshi (1996). His portrayal of Uday Shetty in the 2007 comedy Welcome made him a household name among younger audiences.
The actor also made significant contributions to Marathi cinema, receiving Filmfare Marathi Awards for Dr. Prakash Baba Amte – The Real Hero (2014) and Natsamrat (2016). He displayed versatility, highlighting roles as a politician in Raajneeti (2010) and a deaf parent in Khamoshi: The Musical (1996). His work extended to theater, where he developed his signature intense dialogue delivery.
Controversies and Legacy
Patekar faced allegations of sexual harassment in 2018, which sparked part of India’s #MeToo movement. Actor Tanushree Dutta accused him of misconduct on a film set a decade earlier, but he denied the claims. In 2019, police cleared him of charges due to insufficient evidence.
Beyond acting, Patekar co-founded the Naam Foundation in 2015, focusing on farmer welfare and water conservation in Maharashtra. His military service, including a stint in the Territorial Army during the 1999 Kargil conflict, also shaped his public persona.
State Funeral and Tributes
Maharashtra Culture Minister Ashish Shelar announced that Patekar would receive a state funeral, with his last rites held at his Pune farmhouse. Bollywood stars like Akshay Kumar and PM Narendra Modi paid tribute, with Modi calling his death a “vast void in the artistic world.” Kumar praised Patekar’s “rare performer” qualities, while the BBC highlighted his “intense performances and distinct dialogue delivery.”
Final Days and Public Appearance
Patekar was last seen publicly on October 4, addressing the Samraat Club International installation ceremony in Goa. He reportedly remarked, “Every person’s life will eventually reach that point.” His final film role was in O’Romeo, alongside Shahid Kapoor.
Authorities Await Post-Mortem Results
The post-mortem results are expected to be released in the coming days, with authorities awaiting findings before finalizing the cause of death. Patekar’s legacy will be commemorated through his filmography, social initiatives, and the enduring impact of his performances on Indian cinema.