Former India cricketers Ajinkya Rahane and Shikhar Dhawan have expressed their grief following the death of veteran actor Nana Patekar, remembering the celebrated performer for his remarkable contribution to Indian cinema and his work beyond the film industry. Nana Patekar passed away at 5:20 am on Thursday after suffering a cardiac arrest at his residence.
According to news agency ANI, citing Dr Shekhar Salkar, Chief of the Department of Oncology at Manipal Hospital, doctors performed CPR for around 45 minutes. However, Patekar remained in asystole throughout the resuscitation attempt.
Following the news of his death, Ajinkya Rahane took to X to pay tribute to the acclaimed actor. The former India batter highlighted Patekar’s ability to entertain and inspire generations through his work. “Nana Patekar ji was a truly remarkable actor whose work has inspired and entertained generations. Very sad to hear about his passing. May his soul rest in peace,” Rahane wrote.
Nana Patekar ji was a truly remarkable actor whose work has inspired and entertained generations. Very sad to hear about his passing. May his soul rest in peace. 🙏🏼
— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) October 8, 2026
Shikhar Dhawan also remembered Patekar, describing him as an exceptional talent whose contribution to Indian cinema would continue to influence audiences for years to come.
“Indian cinema has lost a truly special talent today. Nana Patekar saab, your work will continue to inspire generations. Om Shanti,” Dhawan posted on X.
Indian cinema has lost a truly special talent today. Nana Patekar saab, your work will continue to inspire generations. Om Shanti. 🙏 https://t.co/LNcJpnTVUB
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) October 8, 2026
A true legend of Indian cinema. His work and legacy will live on for generations. Rest in peace, Nana Patekar ji. Om Shanti. 🙏
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) October 8, 2026
Nana Patekar enjoyed a career spanning several decades and established himself as one of the most respected actors in both Hindi and Marathi cinema. He made his acting debut with the 1978 film Gaman and went on to deliver memorable performances in movies such as Parinda, Prahar, Angaar, Krantiveer, Tiranga, Khamoshi and Ab Tak Chhappan.
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His contribution was not limited to cinema. In 2015, Patekar extended financial assistance to drought-hit farming families in Maharashtra, handing cheques worth Rs 15,000 each to more than 100 families in Latur and Vidarbha.
BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla also mourned Patekar’s death, praising both his acting legacy and his commitment to social service. He described the late actor as an exceptionally compassionate human being whose efforts had touched countless lives.
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Patekar remained active in films during the later stages of his career. He appeared in Housefull 5, alongside Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan and Riteish Deshmukh. He also played a police officer in Vishal Bhardwaj’s O’Romeo, starring Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri, and made a cameo appearance in Subedar, featuring Anil Kapoor and Radhikka Madan. The passing of Nana Patekar marks the loss of a distinctive voice and powerful performer whose influence extended well beyond Indian cinema.
