Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik tears up recalling Nana Patekar after the actor's death

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik became emotional on hearing of the death of veteran actor Nana Patekar. Tears welled up in his eyes as he recalled memories of the actor. Sarnaik said Patekar had made a very big contribution to his life. According to him, a large-hearted and sensitive personality had gone from among us, and he would always feel the loss. He paid his tribute in these words.

Recalling his own old memories of Patekar, Sarnaik said, "When I was 20-22 years old, I watched Nana Patekar's film 'Ankush'. The film had such an impact on me that I named my autorickshaws 'Ankush'. Later, I also got the chance to hand over the first cheque of Rs 10 lakh to Nana's Naam Foundation. At that time he praised me and said that very few people stand so firmly in politics, and that I was one of them."

Sarnaik said he shared a close bond with Patekar. He said, "Whenever there was a need, I would go to meet Nana. Just last month we were together at the airport. He asked me then, 'Re Pratap, how old are you?' I told him I was 62. He then spoke about his own age in jest. The simplicity and warmth of his personality will always be remembered."

Speaking of Patekar's acting, Sarnaik called him a true 'Natsamrat'. He said, "There have been many Natsamrats, but if anyone is to be called one in the true sense, it was Nana Patekar. His acting had a style of its own. 'Kanda lelo, batata lelo' was not a big dialogue, but Nana made even that immortal with his acting. He had the ability to make even an ordinary sentence reach people's hearts through the power of his acting."

Sarnaik also shared memories of inviting Patekar to political events. He said, "When I invited him to an event, he would say, 'If you invite me, you will hit your own foot with a stone. I cannot speak very well about political leaders. You are my friend, but still do not expect me to speak well.' That was the hallmark of his frankness."

Sarnaik expressed his feelings in these words: "This morning I got the news of Nana Patekar's death and my heart was very heavy. A large-hearted, sensitive and extraordinary artist has gone from among us today. His memories will always stay with me. My heartfelt tribute to Nana Patekar."