PM Modi Pays Tribute to Nana Patekar, Recalls His Enduring Contribution to Cinema

In a social media post, Modi said Patekar brought intensity, individuality and creativity to his performances and created characters that would continue to be remembered by audiences for generations. He also recalled the actor's candid and outspoken nature.

Modi described Patekar's contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema as immense and said his death had left a deep void. He extended his condolences to the actor's family, friends and admirers.

According to an official confirmation from Manipal Hospital, Goa, Patekar was found unconscious at his residence in Dona Paula and was taken to the hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead.

Patekar, whose career spanned more than four decades, was known for his powerful performances, distinctive dialogue delivery and portrayal of complex and unconventional characters.

Born Vishwanath Patekar in Maharashtra on January 1, 1951, he made his Hindi film debut with *Gaman* in 1978 and subsequently established himself as one of the country's prominent actors.

His breakthrough came with films such as *Salaam Bombay!* and *Parinda*. He later delivered acclaimed performances in movies including *Angaar*, *Tirangaa*, *Krantiveer*, *Agni Sakshi*, *Khamoshi: The Musical*, *Yeshwant*, *Ab Tak Chhappan*, *Apaharan* and *Raajneeti*.

Patekar was also closely associated with Marathi cinema and theatre and ventured into filmmaking. He made his directorial debut with *Prahaar: The Final Attack* in 1991.

He reached a younger generation of audiences through his comic portrayal of Uday Shetty in the *Welcome* franchise. His other notable credits included *Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman*, *Wajood*, *Hu Tu Tu*, *Gang*, *Deewangee*, *Bhoot*, *Welcome*, *Welcome Back*, *Natsamrat* and *The Vaccine War*.

Patekar was awarded the Padma Shri in 2013 for his contribution to cinema and the arts. During his career, he received three National Film Awards along with several other honours.

Away from the screen, Patekar was associated with social initiatives, including efforts to support farmers and families affected by agrarian distress. Despite his stature in the film industry, he largely maintained a private personal life.