Veteran Indian actor and filmmaker Nana Patekar died on Thursday after suffering a severe cardiac arrest at his residence in Goa. He was 75.
Hospital sources said Patekar was found unresponsive at his residence and was taken to Manipal Hospital, where medical teams attempted to revive him. Despite around 45 minutes of continuous CPR, he could not be resuscitated and was pronounced dead at around 5:20am.
Dr Shekhar Salkar of Manipal Hospital said Patekar had sent a message to a friend during the early hours saying he was feeling unwell. His friend later reached his residence and found the actor sweating and gradually becoming unconscious.
Emergency personnel began resuscitation efforts after finding him unresponsive, but doctors were unable to revive him.
A medico-legal case has been registered and a post-mortem examination is to be conducted.
Patekar was one of the most recognised performers in Hindi and Marathi cinema, building a career spanning more than four decades and becoming particularly known for intense, character-driven performances.
His prominent films included Parinda, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Khamoshi: The Musical, Ab Tak Chhappan, Apaharan, Taxi No. 9211 and Welcome. He also directed and starred in Prahaar: The Final Attack.
His portrayal of gangster Uday Shetty in the 2007 comedy Welcome became one of his most popular roles, and he later reprised the character in Welcome Back.
Patekar was also acclaimed for his work in Marathi cinema, including his performance in Natsamrat. He received three National Film Awards during his career and was conferred the Padma Shri in 2013 for his contribution to Indian cinema and the arts.
Tributes poured in following news of his death, with actors and political figures remembering his distinctive performances and contribution to Indian cinema.
