Veteran actor Nana Patekar, known for his commanding screen presence across four decades of Hindi and Marathi cinema, passed away, prompting an outpouring of grief from NDA leaders across the country on Thursday, 8 October 2026. Political leaders remembered him not only for his celebrated performances but also for his tireless work on farmer welfare and water conservation.

Union Minister Gadkari's Personal Tribute

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, who shared a close personal bond with the actor, recalled their decades-long friendship. 'He was a very close personal friend, and our families have shared a relationship for many years. He did a lot of work for farmers, water conservation, and those affected by farmer suicides with great sensitivity. Social consciousness, social responsibility, and sensitivity towards society were special qualities of his personality. We will remember his work in Hindi and Marathi cinema for many years,' Gadkari said. He added that Patekar's contribution to both film industries 'will be remembered for a long time.'

Leaders From Across India Pay Respects

Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya described Patekar as 'a very prominent name in the world of cinema,' noting that audiences across linguistic communities — Marathi-speaking and Hindi-speaking alike — loved him deeply. His colleague, UP Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, called the news deeply shocking, saying Patekar's 'entire life was dedicated to the film industry, India and Indian culture' and that his acting 'left such a lasting impression that people from all sections of society accepted and appreciated him.'

UP Minister O.P. Rajbhar paid tribute on behalf of his party and the people of the state, while Bihar Minister Ram Kripal Yadav called the passing 'a loss for the country and a major loss for the artistic community.' Yadav noted that Patekar 'highlighted the ills of society' through his characters. Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria described the death as tragic, calling Patekar one of Bollywood's greatest. Maharashtra Minister Ashish Shelar remembered him as 'an artist who overcame adverse conditions and left a mark on people through his acting skills.'

A Career That Defined an Era

Nana Patekar made his Hindi film debut with 'Gaman' in 1978, embarking on a career that would span more than four decades. His breakthrough came with acclaimed films such as 'Salaam Bombay!' and 'Parinda'. He went on to deliver memorable performances in 'Angaar', 'Tirangaa', 'Krantiveer', 'Agni Sakshi', 'Khamoshi: The Musical', 'Yeshwant', 'Ab Tak Chhappan', 'Apaharan', and 'Raajneeti'. He was widely regarded as one of the most respected performers of his generation in both Hindi and Marathi cinema.

Beyond the Screen: His Social Legacy

Beyond his acting career, Patekar was actively involved in humanitarian work, particularly focused on farmers in distress and those affected by farmer suicides in Maharashtra. His organisation, Naam Foundation, worked on drought relief and water conservation — causes that earned him deep respect far beyond the film fraternity. This dimension of his life was prominently recalled by political leaders across party lines. His passing marks the end of an era for Indian cinema and civil society alike.