Veteran actor and filmmaker Nana Patekar has died aged 75, his son Malhar confirming the news to The Indian Express. The paper reported that he died in Goa on Thursday, October 8. An AP and Reuters report carried by Al Jazeera also confirmed his death at 75. Patekar’s screen work and theatre career spanned nearly five decades.
A career across Hindi and Marathi cinema
Patekar made his film debut in Gaman (1978). His performances in films including Parinda, Prahaar, Agni Sakshi, Khamoshi: The Musical, Ab Tak Chhappan, Apaharan, Rajneeti and Welcome showed a range that moved between intense drama and mainstream entertainment. The Indian Express notes that his role in Parinda earned him the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor.
He also remained part of Marathi cinema, with credits including Natsamrat and Ole Aale. Patekar received three National Film Awards and the Padma Shri, distinctions also noted by Al Jazeera’s report. His work in theatre was part of the contribution recognised in Maharashtra’s announcement of a state funeral.
Tributes and a lasting screen presence
Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar announced that Patekar would receive a state funeral in recognition of his contribution to theatre and cinema; The Hindu also reported the state-honours decision. The tributes reflect a career remembered not only for recognisable roles, but for an unusually forceful screen presence across languages and genres.
For another example of audiences returning to an Indian cinema favourite across generations, read TFI Buzz’s feature on Nuvvu Naaku Nachav at 25 and its 4K return.
