Veteran actor Nana Patekar, one of Indian cinema's most celebrated and versatile performers, passed away at the age of 75 in Goa on 8 October 2026. According to an official confirmation from Manipal Hospital, Goa, Patekar was found unconscious at his residence in Dona Paula, Goa, and was rushed to hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead. Leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) were among the first to offer condolences, describing his death as an irreparable loss to Indian art and cinema.

Amit Shah: 'Indelible mark on the hearts of audiences'

Union Home Minister Amit Shah said in a statement: 'The passing of the great Indian cinema actor Nana Patekar ji is an irreparable loss to the world of art. Over five decades, with his natural acting and powerful dialogue delivery, he left an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences.' Shah noted that Patekar breathed life into every character — from serious social dramas to comedy and satire — with equal conviction. He also recalled Patekar's humanitarian work through the Naam Foundation, particularly his outreach to drought-affected farmer families, and his visits to border postings to boost the morale of soldiers.

Rajnath Singh Remembers a Rare Versatility

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the actor's passing as an 'irreparable loss' to Indian cinema and praised his extraordinary range. 'He could make audiences laugh with impeccable comic timing, yet in films like Ankush, Prahaar and Krantiveer, he brought a rawness and gravitas that made every character unforgettable,' Singh said. Calling Patekar 'an institution in himself', Singh added that his contribution to Indian cinema would continue to inspire generations of artists.

Maharashtra CM Fadnavis: 'A Massive Shock'

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, in a post on X in Marathi, described the death as a massive shock and fondly recalled Patekar as a close friend. Fadnavis highlighted Patekar's lasting contribution to both Marathi and Hindi cinema, singling out his portrayals in Krantiveer and Natsamrat as works that left a deep impact on audiences. Fadnavis also paid tribute to Patekar's grassroots social work through the NAAM Foundation, noting that the actor had personally visited villages to support farmers and drought-affected communities.

Smriti Irani's Personal Tribute: 'Dada'

BJP leader Smriti Irani offered an unusually personal tribute, recalling Patekar as 'Dada' — the name by which she addressed him. 'Dada. That's what I called him, while the world knew him as Nana Patekar,' she said. Irani remembered his warmth and simplicity, including an occasion when he cooked for her, and shared the final words of their last conversation: 'Our last conversation still echoes in my ears. 'Aa re Pune, kadhi yeshil?' Come to Pune, when will you visit? I said, 'Soon.' Guess it was not soon enough. See you on the other side, Dada.'

A Career Spanning Five Decades

Patekar's career spanned more than five decades, with roles in landmark films across multiple languages cementing his reputation as one of the most intense and fearless actors in Indian cinema. Beyond films, his work through the Naam Foundation to support distressed farmers drew widespread respect, bridging the gap between celebrity and social accountability. His death leaves a void in both the cultural and social fabric of the nation, and tributes are continuing to pour in from across the political spectrum and film industry.