Mumbai, October 2026: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has expressed deep grief over the demise of veteran actor Nana Patekar, describing his death as a major loss for the film industry, Maharashtra and him personally.
Shinde recalled his last meeting with Patekar during Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations at the actor’s residence in Pune last week, saying that the meeting on Anant Chaturdashi turned out to be their final interaction.
In his condolence message, Shinde said Patekar had reached great heights in theatre and cinema and developed a distinctive style in every aspect of acting, from dialogue delivery to facial expressions. He also praised the actor for maintaining strong social awareness throughout his life.
“Nana Patekar was a living school of acting,” Shinde said. He noted that Patekar’s dialogues from the film ‘Natsamrat’ continue to resonate with audiences.
Shinde said that while Patekar had a commanding presence on screen, he was an extremely simple and grounded person in real life.
The Deputy Chief Minister particularly highlighted Patekar’s work through the Naam Foundation for farmers and drought-affected families. He said the actor personally took the initiative to support farmer families facing difficult circumstances and remained closely connected with ordinary people.
“Nana’s concern for farmers and the work he undertook to help them will always be remembered by Maharashtra,” Shinde said.
Recalling his personal association with the actor, Shinde said he would visit Patekar’s Pune residence every year for Ganpati darshan and had the opportunity to experience his warm hospitality and friendly nature.
“Talking to Nana and seeking his guidance was always a pleasant experience,” Shinde said.
He also recalled Patekar’s visit to Shinde’s residence in Dare, where the actor inspected agricultural activities and participated in efforts related to desilting work.
Shinde remembered a particularly personal moment when Patekar placed his hand on his shoulder and affectionately addressed him as “Kranti Veer”. He said the actor’s words of appreciation gave him additional motivation to continue working for the people.
Describing Patekar as a sensitive personality who used his art for the benefit of society, Shinde said the actor created a distinctive identity through his powerful performances in Marathi and Hindi cinema as well as on stage.
His performance in ‘Natsamrat’, Shinde said, demonstrated the immense power and range of his acting. Patekar’s contribution to theatre and cinema, along with his social work, would continue to inspire future generations.
Shinde said Patekar’s natural acting style, powerful voice and ability to completely immerse himself in a character would remain etched in public memory.
The actor’s death, he said, had created a major void in both Marathi and Hindi cinema, but his contribution and legacy would endure.
“Maharashtra has lost its strong and fearless voice. I have lost a true and generous friend. This is an irreparable loss. An actor like Nana Patekar is born only once in a century,” Shinde said.
He also recalled that Patekar had a final dream of establishing schools for children in Kashmir. Shinde said he considered it his duty to extend every possible assistance towards fulfilling that dream.
“Helping fulfil Nana Patekar’s final dream will be the true tribute to him,” Shinde said, adding that he stood with Patekar’s family, friends and countless admirers in their hour of grief.
