PANAJI, Goa (Diya TV ) — Veteran actor Nana Patekar died Thursday morning at age 75 after suffering a cardiac arrest at his home in Dona Paula, Goa. The acclaimed actor was later taken to Manipal Hospital, where doctors tried to revive him. He was declared dead at about 5:20 a.m., according to hospital officials and reports citing his family.
Patekar’s death marks the loss of one of Indian cinema’s most distinctive performers. He built a long career across Hindi and Marathi films. His intense acting style, strong dialogue delivery, and memorable screen presence earned him a wide following.
Patekar spent his final hours at his residence in Dona Paula. According to reports, he contacted a friend around 2:30 a.m. and said he felt unwell. The friend later reached his home and found him in serious distress.
A medical team then reached the residence and began cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or CPR. The team continued efforts while taking Patekar to Manipal Hospital in Dona Paula. Doctors continued resuscitation at the hospital for about 45 minutes. However, they could not revive him.
Dr. Shekhar Salkar, a senior doctor at Manipal Hospital, said the actor remained in cardiac arrest during the resuscitation efforts. The hospital later confirmed his death at 5:20 a.m.
Authorities have also started the medico-legal process following Patekar’s sudden death. Reports say doctors sent his body for a post-mortem examination at Goa Medical College.
The examination will help authorities establish the precise medical cause of death. Although doctors have identified cardiac arrest as the cause, the post-mortem can provide additional medical and legal confirmation.
The medico-legal procedure does not by itself indicate that authorities suspect wrongdoing. Instead, such procedures can help document sudden or unexpected deaths that occur outside a hospital setting.
Patekar began his film career in the late 1970s. He gradually built a reputation for playing demanding and complex characters. His work later earned him major recognition in both Hindi and Marathi cinema.
His notable films include “Parinda,” “Krantiveer,” “Agni Sakshi,” “Prahaar: The Final Attack,” “Khamoshi: The Musical,” and “Welcome.” He also worked as a director and theatre artist during his long career.
His performance in “Krantiveer” earned him the National Film Award for Best Actor. He also received another National Film Award for his supporting role in “Agni Sakshi.” In 2013, the Indian government honored him with the Padma Shri for his contribution to the arts.
News of Patekar’s death quickly spread across the Indian film industry. Actors, filmmakers and fans have remembered him for his powerful performances and distinctive personality.
His career lasted more than four decades. During that time, he moved between serious cinema, mainstream Bollywood productions, Marathi films and theatre. As a result, several generations of viewers became familiar with his work.
Patekar also remained involved in social work. His public work included efforts connected to farmers and water conservation through the Naam Foundation.
His death now closes a significant chapter in Indian cinema. While his sudden passing has left fans and colleagues mourning, his performances will continue to shape his legacy on screen.
