Nana Patekar passes away at 75 in Goa after suffering suspected cardiac arrest

Veteran Indian actor Nana Patekar has died at the age of 75. Known for his intense screen presence, distinctive dialogue delivery, and fearless personality, Patekar passed away in Goa, as confirmed by his son, Malhar, and medical authorities.

Final Moments and Medical Details

According to official details provided by Manipal Hospital in Goa, the actor was found unconscious at his residence in Dona Paula in the early hours of Thursday. He was rushed to the medical facility by emergency responders.

Dr. Shekhar Salkar of Manipal Hospital recounted the emergency efforts to the media, stating that the actor was unresponsive when the emergency response team arrived. Medical staff administered continuous cardiac massage and CPR for roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour. Despite their best efforts, his heart showed complete asystole throughout the resuscitation attempt, and he was declared brought dead.

Because no family member was present at his residence when he passed away, medico-legal formalities required a post-mortem examination, which was scheduled to be carried out at the Goa Medical College near Panaji. Police investigation into the cause of death is active, though doctors noted he was a known cardiac patient on medication.

Accolades and Notable Filmography

Born Vishwanath Patekar on January 1, 1951, in Maharashtra, the actor began his artistic journey in theatre before making his Hindi film debut in 1978 with Gaman. He established himself through powerful stage work in productions such as Purush and Hamidabai Chi Kothi before achieving widespread recognition on the silver screen.

His breakthrough arrived with critically acclaimed performances in Salaam Bombay! and 1989's Parinda, where his portrayal of the gritty gangster Anna earned him his first National Film Award. Over a career spanning decades, Patekar proved his range by portraying gangsters, soldiers, policemen, politicians, patriots, villains, and tragic figures across both Hindi and Marathi cinema.

Film	Year	Role / Significance
Parinda	1989	Anna (Won National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor)
Prahaar: The Final Attack	1991	Major Chauhan (Also served as director)
Krantiveer	1994	Pratap Narayan Tilak (Won National Film Award for Best Actor)
Khamoshi: The Musical	1996	Deaf-mute father (Won National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor)
Welcome	2007	Uday Shetty (Acclaimed comedic performance)

Beyond acting, Patekar ventured behind the camera as a director and writer, and he lent his voice as a playback singer for films including Yashwant, Wajood, and Aanch. He remained active in recent years, appearing in projects such as Housefull 5, Vishal Bhardwaj's O’Romeo, and a cameo in Subedar.

Activism and Public Life

Patekar was widely recognised for his straightforward, unpretentious demeanor and his active involvement in social causes. Issues concerning farmers were particularly close to his heart. In 2015, alongside actor Makarand Anaspure, he established the Naam Foundation, an organisation dedicated to supporting farmer welfare and water conservation efforts in Maharashtra.

His public life also intersected with controversy. In 2018, allegations of sexual harassment were brought against him by actor Tanushree Dutta regarding an incident on a film set a decade prior, which Patekar consistently denied. In 2019, police cleared him of the charges after finding insufficient evidence.

Tributes and State Funeral Arrangements

Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar announced that the state government, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, decided that Patekar will be accorded a full state funeral in recognition of his unparalleled contributions to Marathi theatre and Indian cinema.

"Deeply saddened by the passing of veteran actor Shri Nana Patekar. Through his powerful and deeply evocative performances, he brought to life a wide range of human experiences."

Droupadi Murmu, President, via X

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led national tributes on X, noting that Patekar's death left a vast void in the artistic world and praising the generational impact of his performances. Vice President C.P. Radhakrishnan, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and Maharashtra leaders also shared condolences.

Film industry colleagues expressed deep shock and grief. Akshay Kumar, who shared screen space with Patekar in comedies like Welcome and Housefull 5, praised his distinct voice and intensity. Suniel Shetty, Jr NTR, Riteish Deshmukh, Kangana Ranaut, Prakash Raj, Farhan Akhtar, Sunny Deol, and Anupam Kher shared personal memories and tributes highlighting his simplicity, humility, and dedication to his craft.

Just days before his passing, Patekar addressed an audience at a Samraat Club International function in Dona Paula, Goa, where he reflected candidly on mortality, remarking that everyone has to go someday and questioning whether he had accomplished what he wanted to do.

Family members, including his son Malhar and estranged wife Neelakanti, are coordinating final arrangements. As per initial reports, his last rites with state honours are scheduled to take place in Mumbai, while various reports note his personal wish regarding his final resting place.