Nana Patekar has died at 75 after suffering a cardiac arrest at his Goa residence. The National Award-winning actor was known for Parinda, Krantiveer, Ab Tak Chhappan and Welcome.
Veteran actor Nana Patekar, celebrated for his commanding performances in Hindi and Marathi cinema, died in Goa on Thursday, October 8, 2026. He was 75.
Patekar was found unconscious at his residence in Dona Paula and taken to Manipal Hospital. Doctors attempted cardiopulmonary resuscitation for approximately 45 minutes but could not revive him. He was declared dead at around 5.20 am.
Dr Shekhar Salkar of Manipal Hospital said that Patekar had suffered a cardiac arrest. A medico-legal case was registered and a post-mortem examination was expected to be conducted.
His son, Malhar Patekar, separately confirmed the death to The Indian Express, saying that his father had died of natural causes. Malhar was travelling from Pune to Goa and said the family would issue a detailed statement.
An Unforgettable Voice in Indian Cinema
Born Vishwanath Patekar on January 1, 1951, Nana Patekar began his film career with the 1978 drama Gaman. He subsequently became known for his intense screen presence, distinctive dialogue delivery and ability to move between dramatic, action and comic roles.
His portrayal of gangster Anna Seth in Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s Parinda brought him nationwide recognition. He later delivered acclaimed performances in films including Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Angaar, Tirangaa, Khamoshi: The Musical, Ab Tak Chhappan, Apaharan and Taxi No. 9211.
A younger generation of audiences embraced him as the eccentric gangster Uday Shetty in the comedy Welcome.
Patekar also wrote, directed and starred in the 1991 film Prahaar: The Final Attack. His Marathi work included acclaimed performances in Natsamrat and Dr Prakash Baba Amte – The Real Hero.
National Awards and Padma Shri
During a career extending across nearly five decades, Patekar received three National Film Awards. He won Best Supporting Actor for Parinda and Agni Sakshi, and Best Actor for Krantiveer.
The Government of India awarded him the Padma Shri in 2013 for his contribution to cinema and the arts.
Beyond films, Patekar was closely associated with humanitarian work. He co-founded the Naam Foundation, which supported drought-affected farmers and their families in Maharashtra.
Patekar is survived by his wife, Neelakanti Patekar, and son Malhar. Tributes from actors, filmmakers and admirers are expected to continue as Indian cinema remembers one of its most distinctive performers.
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