Acclaimed Indian actor Nana Patekar dies aged 75

Nana Patekar, an acclaimed actor and filmmaker whose career spanned almost five decades in Hindi and Marathi cinema, has died at the age of 75. Indian news agencies quoting hospital sources reported he was pronounced dead after a suspected cardiac arrest. Patekar rose from regional theatre to mainstream films and became known for intense, often unconventional portrayals.

He first appeared on screen in the 1978 Hindi film Gaman and later received critical praise for roles in Parinda and Krantiveer. International audiences also noted his work in Mira Nair’s Oscar-nominated Salaam Bombay!, which helped broaden his recognition beyond India.

Over his career Patekar earned three National Film Awards — India's top film honors — and was a recipient of the Padma Shri, one of the country's highest civilian awards. He worked across a range of genres and shared screen space with leading actors such as Amitabh Bachchan and Shah Rukh Khan, while being noted for both serious and comic performances.

Political and industry figures reacted to his death. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute on social media, highlighting Patekar’s intensity and individuality as an actor. Fellow actor Akshay Kumar described him as a rare performer whose presence and delivery commanded attention. Patekar is survived by his wife, from whom he was separated, and a son.