Nana Patekar Passes Away at 75: Veteran Actor to Receive State Funeral

By Entertainment Bureau | Bengaluru

Published: October 8, 2026

Nana Patekar Passes Away at 75: Veteran Actor to Receive State Funeral After Cardiac Arrest

Veteran actor and social activist Nana Patekar passed away on Thursday morning at his residence in Dona Paula, Goa, following a severe cardiac arrest. He was 75 years old. Doctors at Manipal Hospital attempted cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) for nearly 45 minutes after he was brought in unconscious, but he could not be revived and was declared dead at 5:20 AM IST.

The news of his sudden demise has triggered widespread grief across political spectrums and the film fraternity, with Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announcing that the late actor will be accorded a full state funeral in his native Donje village in Pune Rural.

Political Leaders Pay Tributes to the Iconic Performer

Patekar’s demise marks the end of an era for both Indian cinema and grassroots social movements. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Cabinet Ministers, and leaders across party lines offered their condolences, reflecting on his rare blend of artistic excellence and social responsibility.

“Nana Patekar was an extraordinary talent whose intensity on screen and dedication to social welfare through the Naam Foundation made him a cherished figure across India. His contributions to cinema and society will never be forgotten.”

— Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis, alongside Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, paid their respects as his mortal remains arrived in Pune. State leaders remembered Patekar for his unfiltered public discourse, describing him as a rare public figure who was unafraid to speak truth to power.

A Stellar Legacy: From Parinda to Natsamrat

Born Vishwanath Patekar in Raigad, Maharashtra, the actor overcame acute childhood poverty to become one of the most revered figures in Indian cinema. After starting his career in regional Marathi theatre, he made his Hindi film debut with Gaman (1978).

Over a career spanning nearly five decades, Patekar won three National Film Awards and was honored with the Padma Shri in 2013.

Career Highlights & Achievements

 National Award Winner: Won National Awards for Parinda (1989), Krantiveer (1994), and Agnisakshi (1996).

 Versatile Range: Portrayed unforgettable characters ranging from intense dramas (Prahaar, Natsamrat) to high-energy comedies (Welcome, Housefull 5).

 Social Activism: Co-founded the Naam Foundation in 2015 to provide relief and financial aid to drought-affected farmers across Maharashtra.

Final Journey and State Honors

Following a public view (darshan) at the Goa Medical College morgue in Bambolim, Patekar’s mortal remains were flown via special aircraft to Pune International Airport on Thursday evening. From there, the body was transported to his ancestral home and farmhouse in Donje village near Pune.

The last rites and cremation are taking place with full state honors, attended by senior government ministers, political dignitaries, film personalities, and thousands of grieving admirers.