Mumbai, October 8 (Daily Kiran) : The film industry is in mourning following the news of veteran actor Nana Patekar’s passing. Colleagues and friends have shared their memories, describing his death as a significant loss for cinema.
Actor and director Amol Palekar expressed his shock, stating, “I am at a loss for words. I am still grappling with this news. Just a day and a half ago, I spoke with Nana on the phone. He couldn’t attend my new play but promised to come to the next show. Now, that meeting will never happen.”
Manoj Bajpayee also conveyed his deep sorrow on social media, writing, “I still can’t believe that Nana Patekar is no longer with us. His journey inspired many artists like me who came to Mumbai to make a mark in films. He showed us that one could carve out a space in the industry by being true to oneself and showcasing unique talent. He will be greatly missed. Om Shanti.”
Sunny Deol reminisced about his connection with Patekar, saying, “I still find it hard to accept that Nana ji is gone. We never worked together, but we shared a special bond over the years. He was fearless and lived life on his own terms. I will always remember him.”
Comedian Sunil Pal highlighted Patekar’s influence on aspiring artists, describing him as a mentor. “Though he may have left this world physically, his work in acting, directing, and writing will live on, inspiring future generations. His passing is a loss not only for the film industry but for society as a whole,” he remarked.
Pal also shared that Patekar was dedicated to helping farmers through his organization. “He respected senior artists and showed immense love to younger ones. He believed in leading a simple life and remained connected to agriculture. He was never afraid to question the government on issues affecting common people’s rights.”
Singer Anup Jalota fondly remembered their friendship, stating, “Just as people will never forget Raj Kapoor, Dilip Kumar, and Dharmendra, Nana Patekar will also be remembered forever. He was not only a great artist but also a wonderful human being. We had a strong friendship. A few months ago, he expressed interest in attending my music gatherings, but it never happened.”
Jalota also recalled a conversation where Patekar praised his candidness during an interview, saying, “He told me he was watching my interview and appreciated my straightforwardness. I told him I was his disciple in that regard, which made him laugh.”
Moreover, Jalota praised Patekar’s generosity, noting that he often requested producers to donate a portion of his earnings to help those in need. “Nana was serious about aiding farmers. He never bought a car for himself, believing that the money spent on a car could be used to build a home for a farmer.”
Patekar had a special connection to Goa, and just days before his passing, he spoke at a Goa Tourism Day event. An old video surfaced showing him paying tribute to former Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, reflecting on their friendship and the respect Parrikar commanded despite being younger.
His legacy as a compassionate artist and humanitarian will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of many.
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