Nana Patekar Remembered: Devendra Fadnavis Pays Emotional Tribute to the Veteran Actor

POSTED BY:- Poonam S. Juthani
DT:-08/10/2026
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Watch the attached video to hear Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis remembering Nana Patekar and speaking about their personal bond.

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Veteran actor Nana Patekar, one of the most distinctive and respected performers in Indian cinema, is being remembered across the country following his death on October 8, 2026. Tributes have poured in from the film industry, political leaders and admirers who grew up watching his powerful performances across Hindi and Marathi cinema. Among the most emotional reactions came from Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, whose words reflected not only public respect for the actor but also a deeply personal bond.

In a video tribute that has been widely shared on social media, including the attached Facebook video, Fadnavis spoke about Nana Patekar with visible emotion. He described Patekar as someone who was like an elder brother, a guide and a friend in his life. Reports carrying the same tribute noted that Fadnavis said Nana was as great in character and dignity as he was on screen.

That sentiment captures why Patekar’s passing has resonated far beyond the film industry. For millions of viewers, Nana Patekar was not merely an actor known for an intense voice, sharp dialogue delivery and unforgettable screen presence. He was an artist who brought rawness, unpredictability and emotional truth to his performances. His characters often felt less like carefully polished movie roles and more like real people carrying anger, humour, pain and conviction.

Over a career spanning several decades, Patekar built an extraordinary body of work in both Hindi and Marathi cinema. Films such as *Parinda*, *Krantiveer*, *Agni Sakshi* and *Natsamrat* established him as a performer capable of combining explosive intensity with remarkable emotional depth. At the same time, his later appearances in popular entertainers such as *Welcome* introduced his unique comic timing to a new generation of audiences. His ability to move between serious drama, social commentary and mainstream comedy made him one of the most versatile actors of his era.

Patekar’s contribution to Indian cinema was formally recognised through several major honours, including National Film Awards and the Padma Shri. Yet, the respect he earned was not limited to trophies or box-office success. His identity gradually became closely associated with social work, especially efforts focused on rural Maharashtra and farmers facing hardship.

This is also a major part of what Devendra Fadnavis highlighted while remembering him. Fadnavis spoke about the compassionate side of the actor, pointing to his involvement in initiatives supporting farmers and drought-affected communities. Patekar, along with actor Makarand Anaspure, co-founded the Naam Foundation, which became known for relief and rehabilitation work in rural areas. He also supported water conservation and farmer welfare initiatives in Maharashtra.

For Fadnavis, therefore, Nana Patekar’s legacy was clearly larger than cinema. His tribute presented Patekar as a patriot, social worker, powerful artist and a close personal friend. The Chief Minister’s reaction stood out because it did not sound like a routine ceremonial condolence. It reflected the loss of someone he had known personally and respected for both his artistic achievements and his work among ordinary people.

The relationship between Nana Patekar and Maharashtra’s public life had always been unusual. Although he was primarily an actor, he was never disconnected from social and political conversations. He was known for speaking openly on public issues and maintained relationships with leaders across political lines. His public persona was direct, outspoken and often uncompromising—qualities that closely mirrored many of the memorable characters he portrayed on screen.

As news of his passing spread, reactions came from across the entertainment world and political spectrum. Actors, filmmakers and leaders remembered him as an institution in Indian cinema. Maharashtra, in particular, has lost a cultural figure whose connection with the state went beyond films. His language, mannerisms, social involvement and strong roots in Marathi culture made him a deeply familiar figure to audiences across generations.

His death marks the end of an important chapter in Indian cinema, but the performances he leaves behind ensure that his presence will continue to be felt. From his intense dramatic roles to his unforgettable dialogue delivery and unexpected comic brilliance, Nana Patekar created a style that was entirely his own.

The video of Devendra Fadnavis remembering him adds a personal dimension to the public mourning. It shows how Patekar was viewed by those who knew him beyond the screen—not only as a celebrated actor, but as a man of conviction, compassion and strong relationships.

For audiences, colleagues and friends alike, Nana Patekar will be remembered as a rare personality: powerful on screen, outspoken in public life and deeply involved in causes beyond cinema. His departure leaves behind a void, but also a legacy built through decades of unforgettable performances and meaningful work for society.