Legendary Actor Nana Patekar Passes Away; BCCI VP Pays Tribute
Legendary actor Nana Patekar dies following a cardiac arrest. BCCI VP Rajeev Shukla pays tribute to the versatile star and social activist.
The Indian film industry is in mourning following the sudden demise of veteran actor Nana Patekar. The celebrated performer, known for his intense screen presence and profound social activism, passed away on Thursday morning at the age of 75.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest Claims Life
Nana Patekar breathed his last at approximately 5:20 am at his residence. According to Dr. Shekhar Salkar, Chief of the Department of Oncology at Manipal Hospital, the actor suffered a cardiac arrest. Medical teams attempted to revive him, administering CPR for 45 minutes; however, he remained in asystole throughout the procedure. The sudden loss has sent shockwaves through the entertainment fraternity and his massive fan base.
Rajeev Shukla Remembers a Compassionate Soul
Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Vice-President Rajeev Shukla expressed his profound grief over the passing of the veteran star. Taking to social media, Shukla lauded Patekar not just as a cinematic icon, but as a man of immense empathy.
"Deeply pained by the demise of veteran actor and an exceptionally compassionate human being, Shri Nana Patekar Ji. His remarkable acting prowess, versatility and powerful screen presence have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Beyond the world of films, his selfless commitment to social service and his efforts to transform lives have touched countless people," Shukla stated.
Shukla extended his heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and the millions of admirers who were inspired by Patekar's dual legacy of art and philanthropy.
A Cinematic Legacy: From 'Gaman' to 'Ab Tak Chhappan'
Nana Patekar was a titan of both Hindi and Marathi cinema. His journey began in 1978 with the film Gaman, marking the arrival of a talent that would redefine character acting in India. Over several decades, he delivered powerhouse performances in iconic films, including:
- Parinda
- Prahar
- Angaar
- Krantiveer
- Tiranga
- Khamoshi
- Ab Tak Chhappan
Even in his later years, Patekar remained a relevant and sought-after talent. His recent filmography included appearances in the ensemble cast of Housefull 5 alongside Akshay Kumar and Abhishek Bachchan. He also showcased his range in Vishal Bhardwaj's O'Romeo, playing a police officer, and made a notable cameo in the film Subedar.
Beyond the silver screen, Patekar was widely respected for his dedication to social causes, often using his platform to advocate for the marginalized and drive meaningful change in society.