Nana Patekar Dies at 75: Veteran Actor Passes Away After Cardiac Arrest in Goa
Mumbai/Goa: Veteran Bollywood and Marathi actor Nana Patekar passed away at the age of 75 on Thursday, October 8, 2026, after suffering a cardiac arrest at his residence in Goa.
According to hospital officials, Patekar was found unresponsive at his home and was taken to Manipal Hospital in Goa. Doctors attempted to revive him for around 45 minutes, but he could not be saved. He was declared dead at around 5:20 AM.
Nana Patekar Was 75
Born Vishwanath Patekar in Maharashtra, Nana Patekar built a career spanning nearly five decades across Hindi and Marathi cinema.
He was known for his distinctive voice, intense screen presence and powerful dialogue delivery. Unlike many actors who were identified with a particular type of role, Patekar successfully moved between serious dramas, action films, comedy and socially driven cinema.
His film career began with Gaman in 1978, after which he went on to appear in several critically acclaimed films.
From Theatre to Bollywood
Before becoming a major Bollywood name, Nana Patekar worked in Marathi theatre.
His transition to cinema established him as an actor capable of portraying complex and unconventional characters.
Some of his most remembered films include Parinda, Krantiveer, Prahaar, Agni Sakshi, Ab Tak Chhappan, Welcome and Mira Nair's internationally acclaimed Salaam Bombay!
His performances earned him three National Film Awards, along with several other honours. He was also awarded the Padma Shri for his contribution to Indian cinema.
A Career Defined by Powerful Performances
Nana Patekar had a distinctive acting style.
His characters
From serious roles in films like Krantiveer and Parinda to his memorable comic performance as Uday Shetty in Welcome, Patekar demonstrated a versatility that made him stand out across generations of Indian cinema.
His Connection With the Indian Army
Beyond cinema, Patekar also had a strong association with the Indian armed forces.
During the 1999 Kargil War, he spent around two months with Army personnel after receiving permission to accompany troops. His association with the military became another notable aspect of his public life.
Tributes Pour In
News of Nana Patekar's death prompted tributes from political leaders and members of the film industry.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences and praised Patekar's versatility, creativity and distinctive contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema.
President Droupadi Murmu also paid tribute, highlighting his powerful performances and commitment to social service.
Actor Akshay Kumar, who worked with Patekar, also remembered the veteran actor and praised his unique talent and authenticity.
A Lasting Legacy
Nana Patekar's career was not defined only by the number of films he appeared in.
His legacy lies in the characters he created and the distinctive way he brought them to life.
For nearly five decades, he
A Lasting Legacy
Nana Patekar's career was not defined only by the number of films he appeared in.
His legacy lies in the characters he created and the distinctive way he brought them to life.
For nearly five decades, he moved between Marathi and Hindi cinema, theatre, mainstream entertainment and socially relevant work.
With his passing at 75, Indian cinema has lost one of its most recognisable and unconventional performers.
Nana Patekar may no longer be on screen, but the characters, dialogues and performances that defined his career will continue to remain part of Indian cinema's history.
Nana Patekar (1951–2026).
