“One rarely meets people like that”: Ravi Kishan mourns death of Nana Patekar
Actor Ravi Kishan shares emotional memories of his close friend Nana Patekar following the veteran actor's sudden passing due to cardiac arrest.
The Indian film industry is in mourning following the sudden passing of veteran actor Nana Patekar. Amidst the wave of grief, BJP MP and actor Ravi Kishan has shared a deeply personal tribute, recalling the profound bond and extraordinary character of the man who was much more than just a colleague to him.
A Sudden Departure
The legendary actor breathed his last at 5:20 am on Thursday after suffering a severe cardiac arrest at his residence in Goa. According to Dr. Shekhar Salkar, Chief of the Department of Oncology at Manipal Hospital, the situation unfolded rapidly. Patekar had reportedly sent a message to a friend around 2:30 am, stating that he was not feeling well. By the time his friend reached the residence at approximately 4:00 am, the situation had become critical. Despite doctors at Manipal Hospital fighting for 45 minutes to revive him, the veteran star could not be saved. He was 75 years old.
Ravi Kishan Recalls a "True Companion"
In an emotional video, Ravi Kishan reflected on the rare kind of person Patekar was. While Kishan has worked with countless artists throughout his career, he noted that his relationship with Patekar was uniquely special.
"I have worked with countless artists across the country, but I never encountered a friend, a true companion, who was so attentive and caring. He was extraordinary," Kishan remarked.
Kishan highlighted how Patekar’s roots in theatre had shaped him into a master of his craft, noting that the entirety of Maharashtra recognizes him as a true 'Natsamrat'.
From 'Prahaar' to 'Laapataa Ladies'
The friendship between the two stars grew over several years. Kishan revealed that he used to visit the sets of the film Prahaar specifically to meet Patekar, a habit that eventually blossomed into a deep personal bond. Even in recent times, the two remained in close contact; Kishan mentioned that their conversations deepened significantly after Patekar watched the film Laapataa Ladies.
Sharing a touching anecdote from a visit to Patekar's home in Goa, Kishan described the actor's legendary humility. He recalled how Patekar, despite his massive stardom, would personally cook meals and serve them to guests with his own hands. "One rarely meets people like that," Kishan added, reflecting on the warmth and simplicity of the man who had just passed away.
A Legacy in Cinema
Nana Patekar leaves behind a massive cinematic legacy that spanned both Hindi and Marathi cinema. Since his debut in Gaman in 1978, he became a powerhouse performer in iconic films such as:
- Parinda
- Krantiveer
- Tiranga
- Khamoshi
- Angaar
- Ab Tak Chhappan
Even in his later years, Patekar remained active in the industry, with recent appearances in projects like Housefull 5, Vishal Bhardwaj’s O’Romeo, and a cameo in Subedar. His passing marks the end of an era for Indian cinema.