Nana Patekar death: Actor's body reaches Pune for state funeral; CM Devendra Fadnavis offers floral tributes

Subhash Kale, co-producer of Nana Patekar-starrer upcoming crime thriller The Confession, also known as The Confession of Mary, said the actor was expected to return to Mumbai and complete the dubbing for the film soon.

Speaking to ANI, Kale recalled his last conversation with Nana: “It is a very big loss, and it is unbelievable… unbelievable. I found out at around 7:30 this morning, as soon as I woke up, and I was completely shaken when I heard the news. Then, to confirm it, I immediately called Malhar, and it was confirmed. It is a huge grief, a very big loss for the industry. A very big loss! So sudden…”

"Rest in peace, dear Nana Sir 🙏🏻 Thank you for giving us such authentic and entertaining cinema. Your hard-hitting performances, effortless comic timing and unforgettable characters will always be an inspiration. Watching your genius onscreen while growing up was a masterclass.

My condolences to the Patekar family and friends. Om Shanti," wrote Hrithik Roshan in a tweet.

"Very sad to hear about Nana Patekar ji. From filming together in Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman and Gang, to visiting his home in Dadar for Ganpati, many little memories came back today.

Rooted and original, he portrayed every character with so much colour, depth and authenticity. He will truly be missed for his iconic presence on the Indian screens," Juhi Chawla wrote in her X tribute.

“It’s still hard to believe that my brother, my friend Nana is no longer with us. I have so many fond memories of the time we spent together, memories I will always hold close. His passing is a huge loss, not just for those who knew and loved him, but for the entire film industry. We have lost a remarkable actor, a great artist and a truly special human being. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Nana 🙏,” wrote actor Sanjay Dutt.

"Deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary #NanaPatekar.

An extraordinary actor with a powerful screen presence and artistic journey uniquely his own that left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.

Beyond the screen, his compassion for farmers and his service through his Foundation reflected his commitment to helping those in need. His legacy of art and humanity will always be remembered.

My heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones and admirers. May his soul rest in peace.

Om Shanti," wrote Chiranjeevi.

Actor Tanushree Dutta, who accused Nana Patekar of sexual harassment in 2018 has also seemingly reacted to the news of his death. She took to Instagram to say that she is on her way to an event and will think about what to say to the media there. She also offered her condolences to the family.

"Deeply saddened by the passing of @nanagpatekar sir. His powerful performances and the life he brought to every character have always been an inspiration.

Beyond cinema, his work for farmers, rural communities and people in need through the #NaamFoundation has touched countless lives.

A truly remarkable artist and human being whose contribution to cinema and society will always be remembered.

Rest in peace, #NanaPatekar sir," wrote Rishab Shetty.

On the demise of Nana Patekar, Veteran Actor Amol Palekar says, "I still haven't fully recovered from the shock of it all. We had spoken just a day ago. He called specifically to say, "I couldn't make it to your new play, but I will definitely come to the next performance." When I heard the news early this morning, it felt as though everything had gone blank—a total void. Our acquaintance and friendship spanned decades. It feels as though I have lost so much."

"When I first saw him in Parinda I didn’t think I was watching an actor. I thought I was watching a real person. When I met him years later, that feeling stayed with me. He was exactly that, a real person who wore his heart on his sleeve and not just a pretentious actor.

Saddened and shocked by the loss of a one-of-a-kind actor and human being. Honest, fearless and always true to himself. An arresting actor, a towering personality, and an inferno of talent.

Rest in peace, Nana sir. You will be deeply missed. Om Shanti," Randeep Hooda wrote in a tweet.

Speaking on the demise of veteran Actor Nana Patekar, PM Modi says, "This morning we got the news that the renowned actor Nana Patekar is no longer with us. He was an exceptional artist who won the hearts of audiences through a variety of roles. Nana Patekar’s life was dedicated to the honour and glory of the Tricolour. He refused to be bound by constraints; like a 'Parinda', he soared through the vast skies of cinema. Through his films, he launched scathing attacks on the prevailing societal order. He was a true Krantiveer who fought against social evils. His silence was as impactful as his speech was powerful. He consistently advocated for keeping anti-national elements in check. I pay tribute to Nana Patekar and offer my condolences to his family and admirers."

The last rites of veteran actor Nana Patekar will be performed at his farmhouse in Maharashtra's Pune district on Thursday, a representative of his social organisation said.

"The mortal remains will be brought (to Pune) by around 5 pm, and later will be kept for the last 'darshan'. The last rites will be performed on the premises of his farmhouse," said Ganesh Thorat, the CEO of Patekar's Naam Foundation, which works for water conservation.

The last rites will be held with state honours, he added.

The farmhouse is located at Donje on the outskirts of Pune city.

President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday said the passing of veteran actor Nana Patekar is a great loss to Indian cinema and offered her heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers.

Patekar (76), known for his versatility and powerful screen presence, died at his Goa residence in the early hours of Thursday.

"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. He portrayed characters that left a lasting imprint on the hearts and minds of people," President Murmu said in a post on X.

His commitment to social service reflected his concern for the underprivileged, she said.

"His passing is a great loss to Indian cinema. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers," the president said.

"Still can’t believe Nana is not among us.

We never worked together, but we always shared a very special bond that went back many years.

Fearless, full of life, he always did what he wanted to do. That’s how I’ll always remember him.

Will miss you, Nana," actor Sunny Deol wrote.

"Condolences on the Passing of Shri Nana Patekar Ji

I convey my deepest condolences on the passing of renowned actor Shri Nana Patekar Ji. I pray to the Almighty for his soul to rest in peace and convey my heartfelt sympathies to his family and loved ones.

Shri Nana Patekar Ji was an exceptional actor who brought remarkable depth and authenticity to every character he portrayed. His unforgettable performance in Krantiveer remains etched in the memories of cinema lovers. Parinda, Khamoshi, Tirangaa, Agni Sakshi, Natsamrat, Ab Tak Chhappan and Apaharan are among the many memorable works in his illustrious career.

His association with the Indian Army and his service to the nation further reflected his deep sense of patriotism and commitment.

My heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and countless admirers. May his soul rest in peace," Pawan Kalyan wrote.

"Dada. That’s what I called him, while the world knew him as Nana Patekar.

His calls were as random as they were precious. No formalities, no pleasantries. Just that familiar voice – “Kahan hai re?”

We barely ever photographed our moments together. Perhaps because one could never imagine there would come a day when photographs would be all I am left with.

I would call him out of the blue, sometimes just to put him on the phone with young talent who admired the legend. And he would oblige, with all the warmth that lay beneath that unmistakably gruff exterior.

Today, among the memories I hold closest is one of him cooking for me. No special occasion . Just Dada, being Dada.

Our last conversation still echoes in my ears.

“Aa re Pune, kadhi yeshil?”

Come to Pune, when will you visit?

I said, “Soon.”

Guess was not soon enough.

See you on the other side, Dada," Smriti wrote and shared a video of Nana Patekar cooking for her.

“I can’t believe my dear friend Nanaji is no longer with us. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. May his soul rest in peace,” wrote Rajinikanth.

"NANA PATEKAR THE GREATEST?💔💔A couple of hours ago, I received the heartbreaking news that my friend Nana Patekar, one of the finest actors and human beings in Indian cinema, is no more.🥹🥹🥹

I had just finished our performance and taken the curtain call. As I walked into the wings, my director Gajendra told me, “Nana is no more.”🥹

After that, I had to meet people, pose for photographs, smile, sit down for a meal… while trying to absorb what I had just heard. It was terribly difficult.

But somewhere, I felt that Nana would have wanted me to finish my work. Fulfil my responsibility to the people who had come to see us. And then, perhaps, remember him.

Actually, knowing him, I can almost hear him dismissing the very idea of a tribute: “अरे, तो क्या हो गया? मर गया तो कौन-सी बड़ी बात है? सभी मरते हैं!”

That was Nana. Direct, unpretentious, with his own way of saying even the most difficult things.❤️‍🩹

I will miss you, my friend. Your warmth. Your hugs. Your extraordinary performances. And whenever I miss seeing you, I will watch your films. Though today, I wish I could simply hug you one more time.

My love and deepest condolences to your family and to everyone who loved you. अलविदा मेरे दोस्त, नाना पाटेकर। बहुत सारा प्यार।," wrote Anupam Kher.

"Shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of Nana.

We all know that one day we have to walk the same path and embark on that onward journey, but knowing that does not make the loss any easier. His passing has come as a sudden and profound shock.

Nana and I shared a wonderful rapport, built on mutual respect, warmth and genuine fondness. He was truly lionhearted — courageous, strong and generous in spirit.

I will always cherish the memories of the time we spent working together. I particularly remember the scene in Mustafa, where his insight and understanding helped me immensely in bringing a certain nuance and depth to my performance in that situation. I will always be grateful to him for that.

Some people leave behind more than memories; they leave behind an impression of their strength, warmth and spirit that stays with you. Nana was one such person.

May his soul rest in eternal peace. Om Shanti.

This song was my favourite from the Film “Mustafa” was the day i discovered I was sick with meningitis , and was shooting through the day , till my headache couldn’t handle it more . And he was gentlemanly about me cutting short , finishing my shoot and heading straight to hospital, till then he had supplied with with the worlds Medicenes to have to subside the headache .

Can’t believe it . We have lost a legend today," wrote Raveena Tandon.

"Shocking! Still cannot believe Nana Patekar ji is no more.

For so many of us who came to Mumbai hoping to find a place in films, his journey gave us hope. He made you believe that your craft, your individuality and being true to who you are could be enough to make your own place.

We have lost one of our finest actors.

You will be deeply missed, Nana ji. Om Shanti," wrote Manoj Bajpayee.

"Absolutely shocking!!!

They don’t make men like you anymore. So deeply rooted no matter how high you rose. Unapologetically yourself, fiercely honest and a master of your craft.

There was only one Nana. There will never be another.

Rest in peace Bhau... Cinema won't be the same without you," wrote actor Suniel Shetty.