Panaji: Veteran actor and filmmaker Nana Patekar, 75, has passed away, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in Indian cinema. He was found unconscious at his residence in Goa and was rushed to a hospital, where doctors confirmed his death at around 5:20 am. Hospital authorities said doctors attempted to revive him for nearly 45 minutes following a severe cardiac arrest, but their efforts were unsuccessful.

Nana Patekar made his acting debut with the 1978 film ‘Gaman’. He went on to establish himself as one of the most powerful performers in Hindi and Marathi cinema, earning widespread recognition for his intense and distinctive portrayals. His performances in films such as ‘Parinda’, ‘Krantiveer’, ‘Agni Sakshi’, ‘Ab Tak Chhappan’ and ‘Welcome’ earned him a massive fan following. His portrayal of Uday Shetty in Welcome also made him hugely popular among a younger generation of audiences.

Patekar was a recipient of three National Film Awards. He won the Best Supporting Actor award for Parinda in 1989, Best Actor for Krantiveer, and Best Supporting Actor for Agni Sakshi. In recognition of his contribution to Indian cinema, he was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2013.

Apart from acting, Patekar also made his mark as a filmmaker. He directed Prahaar: The Final Attack, a film centred on the lives and struggles of soldiers. To prepare for the film, he underwent military training with the Maratha Light Infantry.

His association with the Indian Armed Forces was also widely noted. During the 1999 Kargil War, he reportedly spent time with soldiers and visited several military posts. His respect for the armed forces and commitment to the nation were frequently reflected in his public statements and interviews. With Nana Patekar’s demise, Indian cinema has lost a distinctive and immensely talented actor whose powerful performances left an enduring mark on generations of audiences.