Nana Patekar Passes Away with Cardiac Arrest
Indian Cinema Loses a Legend: Nana Patekar Dies at 75
Nana Patekar Dies at 75: Veteran Bollywood Actor Passes Away in Goa
Mumbai, October 8, 2026:
Veteran Bollywood and Marathi cinema actor Nana Patekar, one of Indian cinema’s most distinctive and respected performers, has died at the age of 75 after suffering a cardiac arrest at his residence in Dona Paula, Goa.
According to reports, Patekar was found unconscious at his residence early Thursday morning. He was subsequently rushed to Manipal Hospital in Dona Paula, where doctors attempted to revive him through continuous cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for nearly 45 minutes. Despite the efforts, he could not be revived and was declared dead at around 5:20 a.m.
Dr Shekhar Salkar, Chief of the Oncology Department at Manipal Hospital, confirmed the death and said that a medico-legal case (MLC) has been registered. A post-mortem examination is expected to establish the precise circumstances and medical cause of death.
A career spanning nearly five decades
Born Vishwanath Patekar on January 1, 1951, in Murud-Janjira, Maharashtra, Nana Patekar went on to become one of the most recognisable faces of Hindi and Marathi cinema.
He began his film career with Gaman (1978) and gradually established himself through powerful performances, distinctive dialogue delivery and his ability to portray complex, intense and unconventional characters.
His breakthrough performances came with films such as Salaam Bombay! and Parinda. His performance in Parinda earned him the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor and a Filmfare Award.
He subsequently delivered acclaimed performances in Angaar, Tirangaa, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Khamoshi: The Musical, Ab Tak Chhappan, Apaharan, Taxi No. 9211 and Raajneeti, among several other films.
‘Krantiveer’ and National Award glory
One of the defining performances of Patekar’s career came in Krantiveer (1994). His portrayal earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor and the Filmfare Award for Best Actor.
He also won National Film Awards for his performances in Parinda and Agni Sakshi, making him a three-time National Film Award winner.
From intense roles to comedy
Although Patekar was widely known for serious and intense roles, he also demonstrated remarkable versatility in commercial cinema.
His portrayal of gangster Uday Shetty in Welcome became particularly popular with audiences. He reprised the character in Welcome Back. His later film appearances included projects such as Housefull 5.
Director, writer and theatre artiste
Patekar was not confined to acting. He also worked as a writer and filmmaker and made his directorial debut with Prahaar: The Final Attack in 1991.
His association with Marathi theatre and cinema further established his reputation as an actor with strong stage credentials and an unconventional screen presence.
Padma Shri honour
Recognising his contribution to Indian cinema and the arts, the Government of India honoured Nana Patekar with the Padma Shri in 2013.
Across his career, he received three National Film Awards and multiple Filmfare honours, reflecting the critical recognition he earned over several decades.
Beyond cinema: his work for farmers
Nana Patekar was also known for his involvement in social causes. Along with Marathi actor Makarand Anaspure, he was associated with the Naam Foundation, which worked to support farmers and families affected by drought and agrarian distress in Maharashtra.
His public image was notably different from that of many mainstream Bollywood stars. Despite his stature in the film industry, he was known for maintaining a relatively private and simple lifestyle.
Nana Patekar — Biodata
Particular Details Full Name Vishwanath Patekar Screen Name Nana Patekar Date of Birth January 1, 1951 Place of Birth Murud-Janjira, Maharashtra Age at Death 75 Profession Actor, Director, Writer Languages/Cinema Hindi & Marathi Film DebutGaman (1978) Directorial DebutPrahaar: The Final Attack (1991) Major FilmsParinda, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Khamoshi, Ab Tak Chhappan, Apaharan, Welcome, RaajneetiNational Film Awards 3 Padma Shri 2013 Son Malhar Patekar Last Reported Residence Dona Paula, Goa Date of Death October 8, 2026 Age 75
Biographical details including his birth name, birthplace, education, career and awards are documented by Indian Express and other biographical sources.
An era comes to an end
With his death, Indian cinema has lost an actor whose career was defined not merely by stardom but by intensity, authenticity and extraordinary command over dialogue and characterisation.
From the hard-hitting roles of Parinda and Krantiveer to the comic brilliance of Welcome, Nana Patekar built a body of work that crossed genres and generations. His distinctive voice, mannerisms and uncompromising acting style made him one of the most recognisable performers in Indian cinema.
The news of his sudden demise has sent shockwaves across the film industry, with colleagues, admirers and audiences mourning the loss of one of India’s most celebrated veteran actors.
