Indian Actor Nana Patekar Dies at 75 After Cardiac Arrest

Veteran Indian actor Nana Patekar has died at the age of 75 after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest at his home in Goa, bringing an end to a film career spanning nearly five decades.

Patekar was found unresponsive at his residence in Dona Paula, near Panaji, in the early hours of Thursday, October 8. He was taken to Manipal Hospital, where doctors attempted to revive him for about 45 minutes before declaring him dead, according to hospital officials cited by Indian media.

His son, Malhar Patekar, confirmed the death. The actor had reportedly sent a message to a friend during the night saying he was unwell, but the message was seen later. A post-mortem examination was planned to establish the circumstances of his death.

Born in Maharashtra in 1951, Patekar built a reputation for intense performances in Hindi and Marathi cinema, often portraying complex and unconventional characters. He made his film debut in Gaman in 1978 and later earned critical acclaim for roles in Parinda, Krantiveer and Mira Nair’s Salaam Bombay!. He also reached a wider audience through the comedy Welcome.

His performances earned him three National Film Awards, while the Indian government awarded him the Padma Shri, one of the country’s highest civilian honours.

Patekar’s death prompted tributes from across India’s film industry and political leadership. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised his versatility and the memorable characters he brought to the screen.

Beyond cinema, Patekar was associated with social initiatives, including work supporting rural communities and farmers. His career encompassed theatre, art-house films and mainstream commercial cinema, establishing him as one of the distinctive performers of modern Indian film.

Source: FSX Business News