Veteran Bollywood Actor Nana Patekar Dies at 75

Thu Oct 08 2026 07:29:40 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Legendary Indian film actor Nana Patekar has passed away. His legacy spanned over 40 years of powerful roles in Hindi and Marathi cinema.

Veteran Indian actor Nana Patekar, noted for his intense performances and distinctive dialogue delivery, died at 75 in Goa. The actor, a three‑time National Film Award winner, shattered expectations with roles ranging from ruthless gangsters to dignified politicians. Tributes poured in from public figures such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and co‑stars including Akshay Kumar. Patekar’s career, spanning theatre, Marathi and Hindi cinema, left an indelible mark on Indian storytelling. Despite his artistic achievements, his public life was not without controversy, most notably during India’s #MeToo wave.

Veteran Bollywood Actor Nana Patekar Dies at 75

Nana Patekar speaking during a press conference in 2016

Veteran Indian actor Nana Patekar, known for his intense performances and distinct dialogue delivery, has died at the age of 75 in Goa, his son Malhar told BBC Marathi.

Patekar was a staple in both Marathi and Hindi cinema, winning three National Film Awards for his portrayals in Parinda, Krantiveer and Agni Sakshi. His characters—gangsters, soldiers, politicians and comic figures—were celebrated for their depth and authenticity.

He was found unconscious at his Goan home early Thursday, rushed to Manipal Hospital, but despite 45 minutes of continuous CPR, he could not be revived. Dr Shekhar Salkar confirmed the loss to ANI news.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led tributes, noting Patekar’s “versatility and outspoken personality.” Modi said the actor’s roles would stay “etched in the memory of generations,” expressing the void his passing has left in the artistic world.

Bollywood star Akshay Kumar remembered Patekar as a “rare performer” whose voice and honesty captured audiences. Other contemporaries echoed similar sentiments, highlighting his commanding presence on screen.

Career highlights included his debut in Gaman (1978), breakthrough role in Parinda (1989), the emotionally charged Major Chauhan in Prahaar, and the patriotic leader Pratap Narayan Tilak in Krantiveer.

Beyond film, Patekar’s work in Marathi theatre—plays such as Purush and Hamidabai Chi Kothi—shaped his gritty dialogue style and rigorous performances, keeping him close to the stage throughout his career.

Activism marked his public life; after a farmer‑water program called the Naam Foundation in 2015, he addressed policy directly, especially regarding farmer welfare. His outspoken criticism of government ministers earned both praise and backlash.

Controversy surfaced when actress Tanushree Dutta accused him of sexual harassment in 2018, igniting India’s #MeToo movement. Patekar denied the allegations, and in 2019 police found insufficient evidence to charge him.