Tributes pour in from cricketers, film fraternity for Nana Patekar

Veteran actor Nana Patekar’s death at 75 has drawn tributes from across Indian cinema and cricket, with several prominent personalities remembering his powerful performances, distinctive acting style and contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema.

Among the cricketers mourning his death, Virat Kohli described Patekar as a “true legend of Indian cinema” and said his work and legacy would live on for generations. Kohli shared the tribute on social media.

Sachin Tendulkar, in a social media post, remembered Patekar as a straightforward and grounded person, saying those qualities were reflected in the honesty he brought to his characters in both Marathi and Hindi cinema.

Suresh Raina also paid tribute on social media, describing Patekar’s passing as the end of an era and praising his powerful performances, honesty and simplicity. Ajinkya Rahane, in a post on X, called him a remarkable actor whose work had inspired and entertained generations.

Shikhar Dhawan, in a post on X, described Patekar as a “truly special talent” and said his work would continue to inspire generations. Yuvraj Singh also remembered the actor in a social media tribute.

From the film fraternity, Riteish Deshmukh expressed his shock and grief in a social media post. Remembering Patekar’s versatility, he said there was no role or character the actor could not perform, from a larger-than-life hero and terrifying villain to a poker-faced comic character.

Akshay Kumar, who worked with Patekar in Welcome and Housefull 5, remembered his intensity, honesty and distinctive screen presence in a social media tribute.

Prakash Raj shared a personal tribute on social media, recalling the conversations, arguments, food and knowledge he shared with Patekar. Jr NTR also paid tribute, describing him as one of Indian cinema’s finest actors and praising the honesty and intensity he brought to his characters.

Alia Bhatt remembered him as “Nana Sir” in an Instagram tribute, saying he had made the world laugh, cry and feel deeply. Kangana Ranaut also expressed grief over his death on social media.

Patekar died in Goa on Thursday after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was found unconscious at his residence and could not be revived despite attempts at resuscitation. Manipal Hospital confirmed cardiac arrest as the cause of death.

His death marks the end of a career spanning nearly five decades, during which he became known for his intense screen presence and powerful dialogue delivery across Hindi and Marathi cinema.