‘Few actors possessed his intensity’: PM Modi mourns Nana Patekar

NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday condoled veteran actor Nana Patekar, remembering his “immense” contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema and praising his versatility and creativity.In a post on X, PM Modi wrote: “Few actors possessed the intensity, individuality and unmistakable presence that Shri Nana Patekar Ji had. He brought remarkable versatility and creativity to every role and gave us characters that will be remembered for generations. He was also admired for his frank and forthright views, never hesitating to express what he believed in.”He added: “Shri Nana Patekar’s contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema was immense. His passing leaves a deep void. My condolences to his family, friends and countless admirers. Om Shanti.”While speaking at an event in Delhi, PM Modi remembered veteran actor.“This morning we got the news that the renowned actor Nana Patekar is no longer with us. He was an exceptional artist who won the hearts of audiences through a variety of roles,” PM Modi said.The Prime Minister said Patekar’s life was dedicated to the “honour and glory of the Tricolour” and used references to some of the actor’s well-known films to describe his career.“Nana Patekar’s life was dedicated to the honour and glory of the Tricolour. He refused to be bound by constraints; like a ‘Parinda’, he soared through the vast skies of cinema,” PM Modi said.He said Patekar used his films to raise questions about social issues and challenge the prevailing order.“Through his films, he launched scathing attacks on the prevailing societal order. He was a true Krantiveer who fought against social evils,” PM Modi said.PM also recalled Patekar’s distinctive screen presence, saying, “His silence was as impactful as his speech was powerful.”The Prime Minister said Patekar consistently spoke against anti-national elements and paid tribute to the actor while offering condolences to his family and admirers.“I pay tribute to Nana Patekar and offer my condolences to his family and admirers,” PM Modi said.Meanwhile, Union home minister Amit Shah also mourned Patekar, sharing a picture with the veteran actor and calling his passing an “irreparable loss” to the world of art.In a post, Shah wrote: “Over five decades, with his natural acting and powerful dialogue delivery, he left an indelible mark on the hearts of audiences. Whether it was serious social issues or humor-satire, he brought to life every character he portrayed. Through the 'Naam Foundation,' serving drought-stricken farmer families, or going to the border to boost the morale of soldiers, even after reaching the pinnacle of fame, he remained connected to his roots.”He added: “Whenever I met him, his simplicity and straightforwardness always left a deep impression. May God grant strength to the grieving family and fans to bear this sorrow, and may the departed soul find a place at His divine feet.”Defence minister Rajnath Singh also paid tribute to Patekar, writing: “Nana Patekar was not merely an actor; he was an institution in himself. His remarkable contribution to Indian cinema will continue to inspire generations.”Patekar suffered a cardiac arrest at his home in Goa and was found unconscious. He was rushed to a hospital, where doctors declared him dead.Known for films including Prahaar, Parinda, Krantiveer, Tirangaa and Welcome, Patekar was one of the most recognised actors in Hindi and Marathi cinema.Get the latest India News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.