Nana Patekar death: Eknath Shinde says, ‘I have lost a true, big-hearted friend’

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Thursday condoled the death of veteran actor Nana Patekar describing his passing as a major loss to the film industry Maharashtra and himself personallyPatekar who had a distinguished career spanning theatre and cinema died at the age of 75 in Goa Shinde said the actor had developed a distinctive style of performance particularly through his dialogue delivery and facial expressions while also maintaining a strong commitment to social causesShinde recalls last meeting with PatekarShinde recalled that his last meeting with Patekar took place at the actorrsquos home in Pune during Ganpati darshan on Anant Chaturdashi last week He said the meeting which he had expected to be one of many such interactions turned out to be their final meeting mdash mdash Eknath Shinde mieknathshinde October 8 2026In his condolence message Shinde described Patekar as a living school of acting and recalled the impact of his performances on audiences He specifically referred to the actorrsquos work in Natsamrat saying his dialogues from the film continued to resonate with viewersWhile Patekar was known for his commanding presence on screen Shinde said he was simple and grounded in his personal lifeActorrsquos work for farmers rememberedShinde also highlighted Patekarrsquos social work particularly his efforts to support farmers and families affected by drought through the Naam FoundationAccording to Shinde Patekar personally took the initiative to help families of farmers facing financial and other difficulties His ability to remain connected with ordinary people he said was an important part of the actorrsquos legacyShinde said Maharashtra would remember Patekar not only for his contribution to theatre and cinema but also for his efforts to address issues affecting farmers and rural communitiesShinde remembers Patekarrsquos warmth and friendshipRecalling his personal association with Patekar Shinde said he visited the actorrsquos Pune residence every year for Ganpati darshan These visits he said gave him an opportunity to experience Patekarrsquos hospitality and friendly nature away from the public spotlightChatting with him and receiving his guidance was always a pleasant experience Shinde saidNana Patekar had also visited Shindersquos residence in Dare where he saw the farm and inspected desilting work Shinde recalled a private interaction during which the actor placed a hand on his back and affectionately addressed him as Kay KrantiveerShinde said the actorrsquos words and appreciation encouraged him to continue working for the peoplePatekarrsquos contribution to theatre and cinemaShinde said Patekar had established a distinct identity through his performances in theatre and Marathi and Hindi cinema His roles including his performance in Natsamrat demonstrated the depth and range of his acting he saidThe deputy chief minister described Patekar as a sensitive artist who used his work to engage with social issues He said the actorrsquos natural performances powerful voice and ability to immerse himself completely in his characters had left a lasting impression on audiencesShinde said Patekarrsquos death had created a significant void in the film industries and that his contribution would continue to influence future generations of actors and artistsThe powerful and fearless voice of Maharashtra has fallen silent I have lost a true and bighearted friend This is an irreparable loss An actor like him is born only once in a century Shinde saidShinde pledges support for Patekarrsquos dreamShinde also recalled Patekarrsquos ambition to establish schools for children in Kashmir He said he considered it his responsibility to extend all possible assistance towards fulfilling that goalI consider it my duty to extend all possible help to fulfil that dream That will be the true tribute to Nana Patekar he saidShinde expressed his condolences to Patekarrsquos family friends and his many fans saying they shared the grief caused by the actorrsquos deathPatekar passed away at his Goa residence early Thursday The 75yearold actor was taken to a private hospital after he was found unconscious at his apartment at Dona Paula near Panaji