NEW DELHI — Prominent Indian actor and filmmaker Nana Patekar died at his home in the western state of Goa on Thursday. He was 75 years old.
Press Trust of India news agency reported that Patekar died due to a suspected heart attack, according to a doctor at the hospital where he died.
Born in India’s western state of Maharashtra in 1951, Patekar carved out a career in Hindi and Marathi-language cinema that spanned nearly five decades. He was known for his intense performances and roles, often portraying complex or unconventional characters.
Patekar made his film debut in the 1978 Hindi film “Gaman” and later gained acclaim for the films “Parinda” and “Krantiveer”. Filmmaker Mira Nair’s Oscar-nominated “Salaam Bombay!” His international recognition increased even more with his film.
He has won three National Film Awards, India’s highest film honor, and received the Padma Shri, one of the country’s highest civilian awards.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi mourned Patekar’s death and praised his “intensity, individuality and unfailing presence” as an actor.
“He brought extraordinary versatility and creativity to every role and gave us characters that will be remembered for generations,” Modi wrote about X.
Patekar is survived by his wife and son.