Veteran Actor Nana Patekar Dies at 75

Guwahati: Veteran actor Nana Patekar died Thursday morning in Goa after a severe cardiac arrest. He was 75. Known by his birth name Vishwanath Patekar, the performer was discovered unconscious at his Dona Paula residence during the early hours of October 8.

First responders rushed him to Manipal Hospital. Doctors spent 45 minutes performing CPR in a desperate attempt to save him. Dr. Shekhar Salkar, chief of the hospital's oncology department, declared him dead at 5:20 am. Officials have filed a medico-legal case. A post-mortem is scheduled to confirm the cause of death. Dr. Salkar told news agency ANI, "A medico-legal case (MLC) has been registered, and a post-mortem will be conducted."

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma paid tribute to the star on X. He praised Patekar for his intense screen presence and honest portrayal of social issues. Sarma described him as a versatile talent who stood out in both Hindi and Marathi cinema. He wrote, "Vishwanath Patekar was more than a versatile actor; he was a true nationalist."

Patekar built a massive career that spanned decades. He started on the Marathi stage before shifting to mainstream Hindi film hits. Fans remember him for iconic roles in Parinda, Krantiveer, Ab Tak Chhappan, and Welcome. He balanced serious dramas with comedic turns, winning multiple National Film Awards and Filmfare Awards. The industry mourns a unique talent.