Veteran Indian actor and filmmaker Nana Patekar has died at the age of 75 in Goa after suffering a cardiac arrest, marking the end of a nearly five-decade career in Indian cinema. His son, Malhar Patekar, confirmed his death to the BBC.
Patekar was reportedly taken to a hospital after he was found unconscious at his home in Goa early Thursday. Doctors attempted to revive him, but he could not be saved. Reports from Indian media said he was pronounced dead at Manipal Hospital.
Born in Maharashtra in 1951, Nana Patekar became one of the most recognizable performers in Hindi and Marathi cinema. He began his film career with Gaman in 1978 and later gained widespread recognition for performances in films including Parinda and Krantiveer.
Throughout his career, Patekar was known for portraying intense and complex characters. His work extended beyond mainstream Bollywood, with significant contributions to Marathi cinema and theatre. He also appeared in Mira Nair's acclaimed film Salaam Bombay!
Patekar received three National Film Awards for his work and was awarded the Padma Shri, one of India's highest civilian honours. His performances and distinctive screen presence made him a prominent figure in Indian cinema for several decades.
News of his death has prompted tributes from across India's film industry and public life. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to the veteran actor, remembering his contribution to Indian cinema.
Nana Patekar's death marks the loss of an actor whose career crossed Hindi and Marathi cinema, theatre and filmmaking. His body of work over nearly five decades remains an important part of modern Indian cinema.