Shikhar Dhawan and Ajinkya Rahane have paid tribute to veteran actor Nana Patekar following his death at the age of 75. Both former India batters remembered Patekar as a remarkable actor whose work entertained and inspired generations of audiences across Hindi and Marathi cinema.
Patekar died at 5:20 am on Thursday, October 8, after suffering a cardiac arrest at his home in Goa. He had complained of discomfort and pain on the left side of his chest earlier in the morning before being taken to Manipal Hospital, where doctors continued resuscitation efforts.
Shikhar Dhawan And Ajinkya Rahane Pay Tribute To Nana Patekar
Shikhar Dhawan took to X to mourn the actor’s death and described him as a special talent whose work would continue to inspire generations. The former India opener also offered his condolences to his family, friends and admirers.
“Indian cinema has lost a truly special talent today. Nana Patekar saab, your work will continue to inspire generations. Om Shanti,” Dhawan wrote.
Indian cinema has lost a truly special talent today. Nana Patekar saab, your work will continue to inspire generations. Om Shanti. 🙏 https://t.co/LNcJpnTVUB
— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) October 8, 2026
Ajinkya Rahane also remembered the veteran actor for his contribution to Indian cinema. The former India batter highlighted how his work had both inspired and entertained audiences over several decades.
“Nana Patekar ji was a truly remarkable actor whose work has inspired and entertained generations. Very sad to hear about his passing. May his soul rest in peace,” Rahane said.
Nana Patekar ji was a truly remarkable actor whose work has inspired and entertained generations. Very sad to hear about his passing. May his soul rest in peace. 🙏🏼
— Ajinkya Rahane (@ajinkyarahane88) October 8, 2026
Nana Patekar Dies After Cardiac Arrest In Goa
According to Dr Shekhar Salkar, Chief of the Department of Oncology at Manipal Hospital, Patekar told a friend around 2:30 am that he felt uncomfortable and had pain on the left side of his chest. The friend later reached his residence and found the actor in distress.
Patekar’s caretaker was contacted, and an ambulance was called after the actor became unresponsive. CPR began at his home and continued during the journey to the hospital. He was brought to Manipal Hospital at around 4:20 am.
Doctors continued CPR and cardiac massage for nearly 45 minutes, but he did not respond to the treatment. Dr Salkar said he remained in asystole throughout the CPR before doctors declared him dead at around 5:20 am.
On October 4, he attended the installation ceremony of Samraat Club International in Dona Paula, where he spoke for more than an hour and became emotional while remembering former Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar.
Nana Patekar Leaves Behind A Celebrated Acting Career
Nana Patekar made his Hindi film debut with Gaman in 1978 and went on to build a career across Hindi and Marathi cinema. Born on January 1, 1951, he studied at Mumbai’s Sir J.J. School of Art before moving into theatre and films.
Patekar also worked as a filmmaker and made his directorial debut with Prahaar: The Final Attack in 1991, in which he also played the lead role. The film drew from military life and reflected his long-standing interest in the armed forces.
He remained active in the film industry well into his seventies. His recent projects included Vanvaas, Housefull 5, O'Romeo and Subedaar. He appeared as a police officer in Vishal Bhardwaj’s O'Romeo, starring Shahid Kapoor and Triptii Dimri, and also had a cameo in Subedaar.
Away from cinema, he was known for his involvement in social causes and maintained an association with the Territorial Army. He was awarded the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
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