Fadnavis mourns Nana Patekar's death, recalls him as a 'close friend'

Veteran actor Nana Patekar has died, leaving the Marathi and Hindi film industries in mourning. His fans have been left shocked by the passing of the actor, who held audiences in thrall with his powerful performances.

Patekar suffered a heart attack at his residence in Goa and was rushed to hospital. Doctors declared him dead while treatment was under way.

Tributes have poured in from artistes as well as from the political sphere. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis shared a post on social media recalling his memories of Patekar.

Fadnavis described Patekar as his close friend and expressed grief at his death. "The sudden and untimely exit of veteran actor and my close friend Nana Patekar is a great shock. My heart is heavy with sorrow. Nana was as big at heart as he was on screen," Fadnavis said.

Fadnavis noted that through his acting, Patekar gave Marathi and Hindi cinema a distinct era. His image of patriotism also resonated with audiences. Referring to Patekar's journey from 'Krantiveer' to 'Natsamrat', Fadnavis praised his accomplished acting.

Fadnavis also mentioned Patekar's bluntness and fearlessness, saying these were part of his personality. However, he said that since becoming Chief Minister he had got to see the tender and sensitive man in Nana.

Fadnavis also recalled that Patekar had supported the Jalyukt Shivar Abhiyan. Together with Makarand Anaspure, Patekar founded the Naam Foundation and went into the fields to work for farmers.

Fadnavis wrote in his post that Patekar was always at the forefront, whether helping farmers or extending a hand during droughts. "Even now, as we face a drought this year, Nana would never have stayed behind, but he has suddenly left us," he said, expressing his feelings.

Fadnavis paid heartfelt tribute to Patekar and said he shared in the grief of the family and fans. He ended the post with 'Om Shanti'.