Mumbai, October 2026: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar has expressed deep grief over the demise of veteran actor Nana Patekar, describing his death as deeply painful and a major loss to the Marathi and Indian artistic community as well as the social sector.
Paying her heartfelt tribute, Sunetra Pawar said Patekar had left an indelible mark on Indian cinema and theatre through his exceptional and powerful acting. His passing, she said, had deprived the artistic world of a versatile and sensitive performer.
In her condolence message, Pawar said, “Nana Patekar was not merely an outstanding actor. His personality represented a beautiful combination of authentic acting and deep social sensitivity.”
From theatre to the silver screen, Patekar brought numerous characters to life through his natural and impactful performances, she said. His work in films such as ‘Natsamrat’, ‘Krantiveer’ and ‘Parinda’ had left an enduring impression on Indian cinema and would continue to remain in the hearts of audiences.
Pawar also recalled the close and affectionate relationship between Nana Patekar and the Pawar family. Referring to her family’s association with the veteran actor, she became emotional and said that Patekar shared a particularly warm bond with Ajit Pawar.
“Nana had a very close, affectionate and cordial relationship with respected Ajit Dada. He always stood by our family during moments of happiness and sorrow. Therefore, the void created by his demise is deeply personal and particularly painful for me and our entire family,” she said.
Pawar also highlighted Patekar’s commitment to social causes, saying that despite achieving great success in the entertainment industry, he never lost sight of his social responsibilities.
She noted that through the Naam Foundation, Patekar worked extensively for underprivileged sections of society, drought-affected communities and farmers.
His efforts in extending support to farmers and people affected by drought demonstrated that his commitment went well beyond his career in cinema, Pawar said.
“Nana Patekar never allowed his awareness of social responsibility to fade even after reaching the heights of success in acting,” she said.
Pawar described Patekar as an accomplished, versatile and sensitive artist who devoted himself both to his craft and to social service.
“His work through Naam Foundation for disadvantaged sections of society, drought-affected people and farmers will always remain an inspiration. I offer my heartfelt tribute to this versatile and sensitive artist who dedicated himself to both art and social service,” Pawar said.
She added that Patekar’s contribution to Indian cinema and theatre, as well as his humanitarian work, would continue to be remembered by audiences and society.
