By Viren Mehta
The news of Nana Patekar's death at the age of 75 in Goa on October 8, 2026 ended the long journey of one of the pioneers of Indian cinema. With his death, the film world lost an influential actor. He won a place in the hearts of the audience with his sharp eyes, special style of speaking dialogues and ability to get into the character. His service work for farmers took his identity beyond the film screen.
Born on January 1, 1951 in Murud-Janjira, Maharashtra, Nana Patekar's original name was Vishwanath Patekar. Due to deteriorating financial condition of the family, he started working at the age of thirteen. According to an interview, he used to earn only 35 rupees a month by painting movie posters along with his school studies. Work has also been done to paint zebra crossings on the road. He linked these experiences of hunger and humiliation with the structure of his acting.
He was interested in theater since his school days. Going further, he met Sir J. of Mumbai. J. Studied at the Institute of Applied Arts. Painting and Marathi theater activities shaped his creative vision. His Hindi film journey, which started with 'Gaman' in 1978, included many well-known films like 'Ankush', 'Salaam Bombay!', 'अंगार', 'टीरंगा', 'Apharan', 'Taxi No. 9211' and 'Rajneeti'.
The diversity of his acting was clearly visible in his choice of characters. He gave his innovative expression to the menacing Anna of 'Parinda', the angry hero of 'Krantiveer' and the unsettling character of 'Agnisakshi'. Sadhu Agashe of 'Ab Tak Chappan' presented the toughness and internal tension of a police officer. 'Khamoshi – The Musical' expressed emotions through silence and gestures, while 'Welcome' Uday Shetty created laughter with the timing and delivery of dialogues. In Marathi cinema, 'Deul', 'Dr. Works like 'Prakash Baba Amte The Real Hero' and 'Aapla Manas' also became an important part of his career. In 'Natsamrat', he deeply presented the pain of old age, breakdown of relationships and loneliness through the character of retired theater artiste Ganapatrao Belwalkar. According to his own words, this role was emotionally demanding and satisfying as an actor. Even after the words were finished, the pain on his face continued to reach the audience.
He received three National Film Awards. Received Best Supporting Actor award for 'Parinda' and 'Agnisakshi' and Best Actor award for 'Krantiveer'. In the year 2013, he was honored with Padmashree. Apart from writing and directing 1991's 'Prahar', he played the character of an army officer in it. To prepare for this role, he took military training. There is also mention in news reports that the Army has given him the status of Honorary Captain. In an interview with 'The Lallantop' regarding the time of Kargil war, he had said that he had joined forces with the permission of the then Defense Minister George Fernandes. According to his description, he spent about 60 days at various places and worked with the Quick Reaction Team.
An important chapter in Nana Patekar's life is 'Naam Foundation'. In September 2015, he co-founded this organization with actor Makrand Anaspur. In the situation created by drought, water shortage and farmer suicides in Maharashtra, its center was to provide assistance to distressed families and work for solutions to ensure the survival of agriculture.
The water conservation work of the Foundation includes activities like deepening and widening of rivers and streams, dredging the reservoirs, increasing water storage capacity and recharging groundwater. According to its official website, between 2015 and 2025, 2,246 water bodies were restored and 178 rivers were rejuvenated. Apart from water conservation, the organization works in the fields of assistance to farmer families affected by suicide, sources of income for widowed women, education and health. In its foundation day notice dated September 15, 2026, it had mentioned the relief work during floods and Covid and the construction of a residential school for the children of families affected by farmer suicides. Along with Nana Patekar and Makrand Anaspur, the organization's team, associates and donors have also contributed in this work.
Despite his popularity, younger Patekar's personal needs were limited. In an interview, he said that bringing a smile on the face of a farmer is more important than buying an expensive car. Reports about simple clothes and a one-bedroom flat in Mumbai give a glimpse of his lifestyle. His simplicity was more expressed in his choices than in his lack of equipment. In 'Kaun Banega Crorepati' he had said that whenever there was film work, he would come to Mumbai and then go back to the village. Making breakfast and lunch for himself, exercising and reading books were part of his daily routine. He liked life among the cows, bulls and surrounding mountains. In an interview given to Rediff about his passion for cooking, he said that spending time cooking together helps people relieve stress. These details reflect his interest in self-reliance and domestic life.
There was frankness and intensity in his nature. While talking about his anger, he mentioned the insult he faced in his childhood. Even in the conversation with Anil Kapoor, there was discussion about his anger and its impact on work. His tendency to express his opinions clearly sometimes became a cause of disagreement. Along with his tough image, sensitivity towards people in trouble was also a part of his personality.
While remembering Nana Patekar, both his artistic achievements and human limitations should be acknowledged. He expressed his life experiences in his characters and donated a part of his success to help the needy people. Along with watching his films, saving water, supporting a family in crisis or helping a child in his studies can be ways to get inspiration from his work. A heartfelt tribute to this pioneer artist of Indian cinema. May his voice remain alive in films and his inspiration of service remain alive in the works he did.
Also read: President Murmu and PM Modi expressed grief over the demise of actor Nana Patekar.