Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Oct 8: Veteran actor Nana Patekar, one of the most distinctive performers in Hindi and Marathi cinema, died at the age of 75 in Goa on Thursday, October 8. He suffered a severe cardiac arrest at his residence in Dona Paula and was declared dead at 5:20 am, according to hospital sources.

Patekar was found unconscious at his residence and was taken to a nearby hospital. Doctors attempted to revive him for nearly 45 minutes, but he did not respond to treatment. Dr Shekhar Salkar, chief of the oncology department at Manipal Hospital, said a medico-legal case (MLC) has been registered and a post-mortem will be conducted.

His son, Malhar Patekar, confirmed his father's death and said he was travelling to Goa. He said Nana Patekar died due to natural reasons and that a detailed statement would be issued later.

Born Vishwanath Patekar on January 1, 1951, in Murud, Maharashtra, Nana Patekar began his film career with Gaman in 1978. Over a career spanning nearly five decades, he established himself as one of India's most versatile actors, delivering acclaimed performances in films such as Parinda, Prahaar, Tirangaa, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Khamoshi: The Musical, Ab Tak Chhappan, Apaharan, Raajneeti and Kaala.

Patekar also displayed his comic versatility as Uday Shetty in the popular Welcome franchise. His portrayal of a retired stage actor in the Marathi film Natsamrat further earned widespread acclaim. He also directed Prahaar: The Final Attack, released in 1991.

During his illustrious career, Patekar won three National Film Awards, including Best Actor for Krantiveer and Best Supporting Actor for Parinda and Agni Sakshi. He also won several Filmfare awards and was conferred the Padma Shri in 2013 for his contribution to Indian cinema.

His death marks the loss of one of Indian cinema's most powerful and recognisable actors, whose intense performances, distinctive dialogue delivery and versatility left a lasting impression on generations of audiences.