New Delhi, Oct 8 (PTI) BJP leaders, including Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari, on Thursday condoled the demise of veteran actor Nana Patekar, saying he was an institution in himself who immortalised many characters.
Patekar passed away at his Goa residence early Thursday. The 75-year-old actor was taken to a private hospital after he was found unconscious at his apartment at Dona Paula, near Panaji, Dr Shekhar Salkar, a senior doctor attached to the hospital, said. He said Patekar was declared dead at 5.10 am.
In a post on X, Defence Minister Singh said, “The passing of veteran actor Nana Patekar is an irreparable loss to Indian cinema”.
“He could make audiences laugh with impeccable comic timing, yet in films like Ankush, Prahaar, and Krantiveer he brought a rawness and gravitas that made every character unforgettable. His voice, presence and ability to inhabit completely different worlds made him truly unique,” he said.
Patekar was “not merely an actor” but “an institution in himself”, Singh said, adding that his contribution to Indian cinema would continue to inspire generations.
Transport Minister Gadkari said the news of Patekar’s demise was “extremely shocking and heartbreaking”, recalling his close and friendly relations with the actor.
“Through his powerful acting, Nana Patekar dominated the hearts of discerning audiences for over five decades via Marathi and Hindi cinema,” Gadkari said.
“With his distinctive style of dialogue delivery, he immortalized many characters in films and created his unique identity. His departure is a great loss to the Indian film industry,” he said.
Highlighting Patekar’s social work, Gadkari said, “The work he did in the rural areas of Maharashtra in the fields of water conservation and watershed management through the ‘Naam Foundation’ is noteworthy and significant. The helping hand he extended to the families of farmers who committed suicide became a support for many families. Nana was not only an excellent artist-actor but also a personality sensitive towards society.”
BJP leader Sambit Patra described Patekar as an “exceptional actor” and a “sensitive and influential personality”.
Patra said Patekar’s performances in films such as “Krantiveer” and “Parinda” left a profound impact, while his portrayal of Uday Shetty in “Welcome” showcased his comedic talent. He said the actor’s voice, dialogue delivery and depth of acting would always be remembered.
BJP leader Biplab Kumar Deb said Patekar’s performances in films such as “Ankush”, “Prahaar” and “Krantiveer”, along with his distinctive voice and intensity, made him “truly one of a kind”.
“The passing of veteran actor Nana Patekar Ji is a profound loss to Indian cinema. His remarkable contribution to Indian cinema will continue to inspire generations,” Deb said. PTI KSH DV
DV
This report is auto-generated from PTI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.