Nana Patekar, a renowned Indian actor and director, passed away at the age of 75 in his residence in Goa, a western state in India. The Press Trust of India news agency reported that Patekar likely suffered a heart attack, as stated by a doctor at the hospital where he was declared deceased.
Born as Vishawanath Patekar in 1951 in Maharashtra, India, he established a successful career lasting almost five decades in both Hindi and Marathi cinema. Patekar was recognized for his powerful performances, often embodying intricate and non-traditional characters.
His acting journey began in 1978 with the Hindi movie “Gaman,” followed by acclaimed roles in “Parinda” and “Krantiveer.” He gained global fame in 1988 with Mira Nair’s Oscar-nominated film “Salaam Bombay!”
Having received three National Film Awards and the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors, Patekar was celebrated for his contributions to the film industry. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed sorrow over Patekar’s demise, commending his exceptional acting skills and unique on-screen presence.
Despite his successful career, Patekar faced allegations of sexual misconduct. In 2018, actress Tanushree Dutta accused him of inappropriate behavior during a 2008 film shoot, igniting discussions in the Indian film sector and becoming a significant moment in the country’s #MeToo movement. The Mumbai police concluded their investigation in 2019 due to insufficient evidence to support the claims.
Nana Patekar is survived by his wife and son, leaving behind a legacy of memorable characters and versatile performances that will be cherished for generations to come.