Nana Patekar Dies at Age 75: Indian Cinema Loses Its Priceless Gem

Mumbai/Goa, 8 October 2026— Legendary Indian cinema actor Nana Patankar passes away at 75 in Goa.

Nana Patankar left behind a brilliant film career spanning more than five decades, featuring unforgettable roles in Hindi and Marathi cinema.

What happened?

Nana Patankar was staying in his flat at Dona Paula, Goa. On Wednesday night around 2:30 pm he told a friend that he was feeling unwell and experiencing pain on the left side of his chest. When the friend and caretaker arrived, he was unconscious. He was immediately taken to Manipal Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead at 5:20 am.

Cause: severe heart attack (cardiac arrest). A post‑mortem is being conducted and the case has been registered as a medical‑legal case.

- State‑sponsored farewell

The Maharashtra government has decided to give Nana Patankar a state‑sponsored farewell. Cultural Minister Ashish Shelar announced that, under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the government has decided to bestow this honour, recognising his contributions to Marathi theatre and Hindi‑Marathi cinema. His son Malhar Patankar shared this information.

Tributes from PM Modi to film stars

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his condolence message, said that Nana Patankar was an artist endowed with rare talent, whose intensity, personality and unique presence left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. His death has created a profound void.

Akshay Kumar, who worked with Nana in “Welcome” and “Housefull 5,” offered an emotional tribute: “I was deeply saddened to hear of Nana Ji’s passing. He was one of those rare artists who never required you to do more to see him. That voice, that intensity, the honesty in every performance… Nana Ji was truly one of a kind. It’s hard to believe you’re no longer here.”

Ram Gopal Varma and other film personalities also expressed their grief on social media.

- Film journey: an unforgettable five‑decade odyssey

| Year | Film | Highlight |
| 1978 | **Gaman** | Bollywood debut |
| 1988 | **Salam Bombay!** | Academy Award‑nominated film |
| 1989 | **Parinda** | National Film Award (Best Supporting Actor) + Filmfare Award |
| 1992 | **Angar** | Best Villain award |
| 1995 | **Krantivir** | Prestigious acting |
| 2004 | **Ab Tak Chhappan** | Critically acclaimed |
| 2007 | **Welcome** | Comic character Uday Shetty – hugely popular |
| 2015 | **Welcome Back** | Return of Uday Shetty |
| 2026 | **Housefull 5** | Final film |

Nana Patankar received three National Film Awards. He also delivered memorable performances in films such as “Natsamrat,” “Vajood,” “Yashwant,” “Shakti: The Power,” “Apaharan,” “Taxi No. 9211,” and “Tiranga.” His contribution to Marathi theatre was unparalleled.

Beyond cinema: social service and patriotism

Nana Patankar was not only an actor but also a true social worker. He undertook numerous initiatives to help soldiers and distressed farmers. The intensity and dedication he displayed on screen were also reflected in his real‑life actions.

Industry and fans in mourning

Fans across the country and members of the film industry are in deep sorrow. In a bygone era, his powerful lines—“I still don’t pick up the money I’ve thrown away” and “Arre o Sambha!”—remain etched in people’s mouths. Nana Patankar’s departure marks the end of a figure in Indian cinema who acted on his own terms and will forever live in the hearts of his audience.