Nana Patekar Dies: Shikhar Dhawan, Ajinkya Rahane Lead Cricketing World’s Tributes For Bollywood Icon
Veteran Bollywood actor Nana Patekar passed away on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at 75, due to cardiac arrest in Goa, prompting widespread tributes. Indian cricketers Shikhar Dhawan and Ajinkya Rahane led the sports world's condolences, remembering Patekar as a 'truly special talent' whose work inspired generations.
The Indian entertainment industry is in mourning following the demise of acclaimed veteran actor Nana Patekar, who passed away on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at the age of 75. Patekar, renowned for his powerful performances and distinctive screen presence, suffered a cardiac arrest at his residence in Dona Paula, Goa. He was rushed to Manipal Hospital, where doctors declared him dead at 5:20 AM after attempts to revive him proved unsuccessful. Nana Patekar Dies at 75; Veteran Actor Suffered Cardiac Arrest in Goa.
News of his passing quickly reverberated across the nation, with prominent figures from various fields, including the cricket fraternity, expressing their profound sadness and respect for the acting legend. Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan and middle-order batsman Ajinkya Rahane were among the first from the cricketing world to pay their respects.
Tributes Pour in from Cricket Stars
Shikhar Dhawan took to social media to share his condolences, describing Patekar as a "truly special talent." In his heartfelt message, Dhawan stated, "Indian cinema has lost a truly special talent today. Nana Patekar saab, your work will continue to inspire generations. Om Shanti."
Shikhar Dhawan Pays Emotional Tribute
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 expressed his sorrow, acknowledging Patekar's immense contribution to Indian cinema. "Very sad to hear about his passing. May his soul rest in peace," Rahane posted, further adding that Patekar was a "truly remarkable actor" whose work had "inspired and entertained generations."
Ajinkya Rahane Condoles Legend Actor's Passing Away
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, born Vishwanath Patekar on January 1, 1951, had a prolific career spanning several decades in both Hindi and Marathi cinema. He was celebrated for his versatility and intense portrayals, earning him numerous accolades including three National Film Awards, four Filmfare Awards, and the prestigious Padma Shri in 2013 for his contributions to arts and cinema.
A Legacy of Memorable Performances
Patekar made his acting debut in 1978 with the film 'Gaman' and went on to deliver critically acclaimed performances in movies like 'Parinda' (1989), 'Prahaar: The Final Attack' (1991), 'Krantiveer' (1994), 'Agni Sakshi' (1996), 'Ab Tak Chhappan' (2005), and the Marathi blockbuster 'Natsamrat' (2016). Even in recent years, he continued to feature in diverse projects, including a cameo in the 2026 release 'Subedar'.
His role as Uday Shetty in the comedy 'Welcome' (2007) and its sequel 'Welcome Back' (2015) also endeared him to a younger generation, demonstrating his remarkable range from intense dramas to popular comedies.
The passing of Nana Patekar marks the end of an era for Indian cinema. His profound impact on acting and his ability to captivate audiences across generations will undoubtedly ensure his legacy endures for many years to come.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 08, 2026 10:33 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
