Nana Patekar died at the age of 75 on Thursday, October 8, 2026, in Goa. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the veteran actor, remembering his distinctive screen presence and contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema.
Patekar was found unconscious at his Goa residence and taken to Manipal Hospital, where doctors were unable to revive him. Cardiac arrest was reported, while the precise underlying cause remained subject to further medical examination.
PM Modi remembers Nana Patekar
Modi praised the actor's intensity, individuality and ability to create memorable characters. In his condolence message, the Prime Minister highlighted Patekar's versatility and creativity across different roles.
He also remembered Patekar's willingness to speak openly about his beliefs. Modi extended condolences to the actor's family, friends and admirers, saying his death left a major loss for Hindi and Marathi cinema.
What is known about his death
Doctors attempted to resuscitate Patekar after he was brought to hospital. Dr Shekhar Salkar said the actor could not be revived despite around 45 minutes of CPR.
A medico-legal case was registered, with a post-mortem examination planned. This procedure is intended to establish the medical circumstances of the death. It does not, by itself, establish wrongdoing.
A career spanning Hindi and Marathi cinema
Born Vishwanath Patekar on January 1, 1951, he began his film career with Gaman in 1978. He went on to build a body of work that ranged from serious dramas and crime films to mainstream comedy.
Parinda, Krantiveer and Agni Sakshi brought him National Film Awards. His other notable performances included Prahaar, Khamoshi: The Musical, Ab Tak Chhappan and the Marathi drama Natsamrat.
For many younger viewers, his role as Uday Shetty in Welcome became a familiar part of his film career. The comedy showed a different side of an actor widely recognised for forceful dialogue delivery and dramatic intensity.
Patekar also directed Prahaar: The Final Attack. He received the Padma Shri in 2013 for his contribution to the arts.
Tributes from the film industry
Akshay Kumar remembered Patekar's voice, intensity and honesty as a performer. The actor's death has prompted tributes from colleagues and public figures who worked with him or admired his films.
Patekar is survived by his wife and son. Further details about funeral arrangements and medical findings are expected from the family and authorities.
Photo credits: Nana Patekar, Bollywood Hungama, CC BY 3.0, cropped for collage. Narendra Modi, NDTV file photo.
