Veteran Actor Nana Patekar dies at 75 after cardiac arrest in Goa

Mumbai, Oct 8 (UNI) National Film Awards winner and veteran actor Vishwanath Patekar, popularly known as Nana Patekar, died on Thursday at the age of 75 after suffering a cardiac arrest at his residence in Goa, his relatives in Mumbai confirmed.

According to reports, Patekar was found unconscious at his residence and was immediately taken to a hospital. Doctors tried to revive him, but he could not be saved. Patekar was one of the most respected actors in Hindi and Marathi cinema and was known for his powerful performances and distinctive dialogue delivery. He had a long career spanning several decades and appeared in several critically acclaimed and commercially successful films.

Some of his best-known films include Parinda, Krantiveer, Ab Tak Chhappan, Natsamrat and Welcome. Patekar was a recipient of three National Film Awards and several other honours for his contribution to Indian cinema. His death has left the film industry and his large number of fans in deep shock and mourning. Away from the limelight, Nana Patekar's personal life also saw its share of difficulties. He married Neelkanti Patekar in 1978, and the couple had two sons, Durvasa and Malhar. Their elder son, Durvasa, died at a young age following an illness. Nana and Neelkanti later lived separately for several years due to personal differences, although they continued to remain legally married.

Patekar was also associated with social causes, particularly issues concerning farmers and people in rural Maharashtra. He remained involved in efforts to support people facing financial hardship and difficult circumstances. However, it was his work in cinema that earned him a lasting place in the industry. Over the years, he portrayed a wide range of characters, including intense protagonists, villains, police officers and comic roles.

Known for his distinctive voice, powerful dialogue delivery and expressive body language, Patekar often relied on silence and intensity rather than glamour. His performances gave a strong presence to even difficult and complex characters, making him one of the most recognisable actors of Indian cinema The report of his last rites is awaited.

UNI AAA ARN