Examiner Bureau | Srinagar:
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Thursday expressed grief over the demise of veteran actor and filmmaker Nana Patekar, recalling their personal association and describing him as a close friend who remained deeply concerned about people facing hardship.
Patekar, 75, died on Thursday morning following a cardiac arrest at his residence in Goa. He was declared dead at Manipal Hospital in Dona Paula at 5.20 am, according to reports.
Speaking to reporters, Abdullah said Patekar’s contribution extended beyond cinema, describing him as an accomplished actor who devoted considerable attention to helping the poor and underprivileged.
“He never looked at religion. He used to look at the sorrows of the people and their pain,” Abdullah said, recalling the actor’s efforts to help those in need.
Abdullah said Patekar had visited Jammu and Kashmir several times and met him on numerous occasions. Recalling one of the visits, he said he had accompanied the actor by helicopter from Kupwara to Gurez.
“He used to come here again and again and meet me,” Abdullah said, also recalling an occasion when the two met at a wedding and danced together.
The NC president said Patekar had spent considerable time among tribal communities and worked to support people experiencing hardship. He said the actor’s concern for human suffering transcended religious considerations.
Abdullah said he was deeply saddened when he learnt of Patekar’s death on Thursday morning. He also recalled that the actor had recently completed shooting for his final film in Goa.
Describing Patekar as an “excellent actor”, Abdullah praised his versatility and distinctive performances in Hindi and Marathi cinema, expressing confidence that his final film would also reflect his talent.
A recipient of the Padma Shri and a three-time National Film Award winner, Patekar was widely known for his intense performances and distinctive dialogue delivery. Alongside his acting career, he was associated with social and philanthropic initiatives aimed at supporting disadvantaged communities.
Abdullah offered prayers for the departed actor, saying his contribution to Indian cinema and his efforts to help people would ensure that he remained fondly remembered.
