Indian actor and filmmaker Nana Patekar has died aged 75 in Goa, bringing to an end a career that stretched across nearly five decades.
His son, Malhar, confirmed the death to The Indian Express on Thursday, 8 October. Maharashtra’s government announced that he would receive a state funeral in recognition of his contribution to theatre and cinema.
According to Reuters, Patekar was found unconscious at his home early on Thursday and could not be revived. The agency cited Manipal Hospital doctor Shekhar Salkar, who told ANI that Patekar suffered a cardiac arrest, although its underlying cause remained unclear.
A career across Hindi and Marathi cinema
Patekar began in Marathi theatre before moving into films. His work covered both serious drama and comedy, and he appeared alongside actors including Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan.
Actor Akshay Kumar paid tribute to his distinctive voice, screen presence and individual approach to acting, Reuters reported.
The Associated Press reported that Patekar made his film debut in Gaman in 1978. He later earned acclaim for Parinda and Krantiveer, while Mira Nair’s Oscar-nominated Salaam Bombay! brought him wider international recognition.
He won three National Film Awards. In 2018, he faced a sexual harassment allegation relating to a film set, which he denied.
National recognition and tributes
Patekar received the Padma Shri in 2013, according to India’s official awards notification.
In a statement published by the Press Information Bureau, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Patekar’s versatility and contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema. He offered condolences to the actor’s family, friends and admirers.
Relevance to Africa and the diaspora
For readers in Africa and the diaspora who follow Indian cinema, Patekar’s death marks the loss of a familiar performer. His career also offers an introduction to Marathi films and Indian cinema beyond mainstream Bollywood.
Patekar is survived by his wife and son.
