"Made huge contribution to film industry, worked extensively for people in social sectors": Goa CM Pramod Sawant remembers late friend Nana Patekar
Goa CM Pramod Sawant expresses deep grief over the passing of actor and social worker Nana Patekar, calling him a close personal friend.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has expressed profound grief following the sudden demise of veteran actor Nana Patekar, describing the loss as both a national tragedy and a deeply personal one.
'A Huge Loss': CM Pramod Sawant Mourns Close Friend Nana Patekar
The acclaimed actor, known for his powerful performances in both Hindi and Marathi cinema, was brought to a private hospital where he was declared dead. The news has sent shockwaves through the film industry and the social sectors he was so passionately involved in.
A Personal Loss for the Chief Minister
Reflecting on his bond with the actor, Chief Minister Sawant revealed that Patekar was not just a public figure but a very close personal friend. He recalled how the actor would make it a point to visit him during his trips to the state.
"Nana was a very close personal friend of mine. Whenever he visited Goa, he would call me personally and come to meet me at my official residence on several occasions," the Chief Minister said.
Sawant noted that the actor's passing feels particularly heavy because of their frequent interactions and the shared vision they had for social welfare in the region.
Vision for Social Work in Goa Cut Short
Beyond the silver screen, Nana Patekar was widely respected for his humanitarian efforts, particularly through the Naam Foundation. His work focused heavily on empowering farmers and supporting various social sectors.
The Chief Minister shared that Patekar had ambitious plans to extend the reach of his foundation to Goa. "He wanted to expand that work in Goa as well, and we had discussed this just a few months ago. However, it is very sad that things could not proceed further, and he passed away here in Goa," Sawant remarked.
A Legacy of Cinematic Excellence
Patekar’s contribution to Indian cinema is monumental, spanning decades and languages. From his debut in the 1978 film Gaman to his iconic roles in high-impact dramas, his presence on screen was unmatched.
His filmography includes legendary titles such as:
- Krantiveer
- Natsamrat
- Parinda
- Prahar
- Angaar
- Tiranga
- Khamoshi
- Ab Tak Chhappan
Even in recent years, he remained active in the industry, appearing in projects like Housefull 5 and playing a police officer in Vishal Bhardwaj’s O’Romeo. He also made a notable cameo in the film Subedar.
Government Assistance and Final Rites
The actor's body is currently at the Goa Medical College. Chief Minister Sawant confirmed that the state administration is in constant contact with the bereaved family to provide all necessary support.
The government has pledged full cooperation in making arrangements to transport the body from Goa. Current reports suggest that the family intends to take his remains to Pune for the final rites.