Hyderabad: Superstar Rajinikanth expressed shock over the death of veteran actor Nana Patekar and said he struggled to accept that his “dear friend” was no longer alive.
Rajinikanth remembered Patekar in a post on X. He also offered condolences to the actor’s family and loved ones and prayed for his soul to rest in peace.
“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 tweeted.
Meanwhile, Rajinikanth and Patekar had shared the screen in Kaala in 2018. Pa. Ranjith directed and co-wrote the action drama. Rajinikanth played the titular role, while Patekar appeared alongside Eswari Rao, Huma Qureshi, Samuthirakani, Pankaj Tripathi, Anjali Patil, K. Manikandan, Dileepan, Nitish Veera, Sampath Raj and Ravi Kale.
The film follows Karikalan, known as Kaala, the leader of Dharavi. In the story, he attempts to protect his land from seizure and prevent Haridev, a ruthless minister, from evicting his people.
Rajinikanth’s tribute came alongside messages from other prominent actors and political figures. Kamal Haasan, Pawan Kalyan and Chiranjeevi also mourned Patekar’s death.
Kamal Haasan shared a throwback photograph with Patekar on X, formerly known as Twitter. He also recalled the actor’s contribution both on and off the screen.
“Heartbreaking news of Nana Patekar Ji’s passing. An extraordinary artist and an even greater human being. The man was a force of nature, and he uplifted the lives of those around him. Beyond the screen, his work helping farmers in Maharashtra and his volunteer service during the Kargil War spoke volumes about his deep sense of duty. My deepest condolences to his family and his legions of fans”.
Nana Patekar tributes recall cinema and social service
Similarly, Chiranjeevi shared a solo throwback photograph of Patekar. He praised the veteran actor’s screen presence and recalled his concern for farmers.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of the legendary NanaPatekar. An extraordinary actor with a powerful screen presence and artistic journey uniquely his own that left an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Beyond the screen, his compassion for farmers and his service through his Foundation reflected his commitment to helping those in need. His legacy of art and humanity will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones and admirers. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti”.
Earlier, Pawan Kalyan had also condoled Patekar’s death. He recalled the actor’s memorable performances and his association with the Indian Army and service to the nation.
Meanwhile, Patekar died at the age of 75 in Goa. According to an official confirmation from Manipal Hospital, Goa, the actor was found unconscious at his Dona Paula residence.
He was then rushed to the hospital. However, doctors declared him brought dead.
Patekar had earned wide recognition for powerful performances in Hindi and Marathi cinema. He made his Hindi film debut with Gaman in 1978.
Over the following decades, he became one of the most respected performers of his generation. His work across cinema and his social service also drew recognition from colleagues and public figures.
The Nana Patekar tributes continued with messages from leading actors who recalled his work, friendship and contribution beyond the screen.