Rajinikanth mourns Nana Patekar's death: 'Can't believe my dear friend is gone'
Synopsis
Rajinikanth's heartfelt X post mourning Nana Patekar puts the spotlight on a friendship forged on the sets of Kaala — and on the sudden loss of one of Indian cinema's most electrifying talents. Patekar, 75, was found unconscious at his Goa home and declared brought dead at Manipal Hospital on 8 October.
Key Takeaways
Nana Patekar , aged 75 , passed away on 8 October 2026 in Goa , declared brought dead at Manipal Hospital .
Rajinikanth posted a tribute on X , calling Patekar his 'dear friend' and offering condolences to the family.
The two actors shared screen space in the 2018 film Kaala , directed by Pa.
Patekar debuted in Hindi cinema with Gaman in 1978 and is celebrated for roles in Krantiveer , Salaam Bombay! , and Ab Tak Chhappan .
His final screen appearance was in Subedaar , directed by Suresh Triveni , alongside Anil Kapoor .
Superstar Rajinikanth expressed profound shock on 8 October 2026 at the passing of veteran actor Nana Patekar, saying he could not believe his 'dear friend' was 'no longer with us.' The Tamil cinema icon took to X to offer his condolences, hours after Patekar's death was confirmed by Manipal Hospital, Goa.
Rajinikanth's Tribute
'I can't believe my dear friend Nanaji is no longer with us. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. May his soul rest in peace,' Rajinikanth wrote on X. The post reflected the grief felt across Indian cinema at the sudden loss of one of its most celebrated performers.
A Bond Forged on Screen
Rajinikanth and Nana Patekar shared screen space in the 2018 action drama Kaala, directed by Pa. Ranjith. Rajinikanth played the titular character Karikalan 'Kaala', the leader of Dharavi, who fights to protect his community from being displaced by a ruthless minister named Haridev — a role essayed by Patekar. The film also featured Huma Qureshi, Eswari Rao, Pankaj Tripathi, Anjali Patil, and Samuthirakani, among others.
How Nana Patekar Passed Away
Patekar passed away on Thursday, 8 October, at the age of 75 in Goa. According to an official statement from Manipal Hospital, Goa, the actor was found unconscious at his residence in Dona Paula, Goa, and was rushed to the hospital. Doctors declared him brought dead upon arrival.
A Career That Defined an Era
Nana Patekar made his Hindi film debut with Gaman in 1978 and went on to become one of the most respected actors of his generation. His breakthrough came through landmark films such as Salaam Bombay! and Parinda. He delivered career-defining performances in Krantiveer, Tirangaa, Angaar, Agni Sakshi, Yeshwant, Ab Tak Chhappan, Apaharan, and Raajneeti, spanning both Hindi and Marathi cinema.
His Final Appearance
Patekar was last seen on screen in Subedaar, directed by Suresh Triveni, where he played Lance Naik Nana Waghmare in a special role. The film also starred Anil Kapoor, Radhika Madan, Khushbu Sundar, Saurabh Shukla, and Mona Singh. With his passing, Indian cinema loses one of its most versatile and intense performers — tributes from across the industry are expected to continue pouring in.
Point of View
From Salaam Bombay! to Ab Tak Chhappan, tracked the evolution of the Indian anti-hero. Rajinikanth's tribute, personal and immediate, underscores how deeply Patekar was respected across regional cinema divides — a rare distinction in an industry often siloed by language. The question now is whether Indian cinema, which has leaned heavily on nostalgia-casting of veterans in recent years, will reckon honestly with the talent it is losing.
NationPress
8 Oct 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Nana Patekar die?
Nana Patekar was found unconscious at his residence in Dona Paula, Goa, on 8 October 2026 and was rushed to Manipal Hospital, Goa, where doctors declared him brought dead. He was 75 years old.
What did Rajinikanth say about Nana Patekar's death?
Rajinikanth posted on X saying, 'I can't believe my dear friend Nanaji is no longer with us. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. May his soul rest in peace.' The two had worked together in the 2018 film Kaala.
Which films did Rajinikanth and Nana Patekar do together?
Rajinikanth and Nana Patekar starred together in Kaala (2018), directed by Pa. Ranjith. Rajinikanth played the titular protagonist, while Patekar played the antagonist Haridev, a ruthless minister.
What was Nana Patekar's last film?
Nana Patekar's last screen appearance was in Subedaar, directed by Suresh Triveni, where he played Lance Naik Nana Waghmare in a special role. The film also starred Anil Kapoor and Radhika Madan.
What is Nana Patekar known for?
Nana Patekar is celebrated for his intense, versatile performances in both Hindi and Marathi cinema. His most acclaimed films include Salaam Bombay!, Parinda, Krantiveer, Ab Tak Chhappan, and Raajneeti. He made his Hindi debut with Gaman in 1978.
