Guwahati: Veteran actor Nana Patekar died on Thursday, October 8, at the age of 75 after suffering a cardiac arrest at his residence in Goa. His son, Malhar Patekar, confirmed the actor’s death.

Patekar was reportedly found unconscious at his home in Dona Paula, Goa, and was rushed to Manipal Hospital. Doctors attempted to revive him for around 45 minutes, but he could not be resuscitated. He was declared dead at around 5:20 am.

Patekar enjoyed a career spanning more than four decades and worked extensively in Hindi and Marathi cinema. He was known for his intense performances, distinctive dialogue delivery and ability to portray complex characters.

He made his Hindi film debut with Muzaffar Ali’s Gaman in 1978 and gradually established himself as a prominent character actor. His early filmography included Aaj Ki Awaaz, Ankush, Pratighaat, Andha Yudh, Mohre and Salaam Bombay!.

His performance as gangster Anna in Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s Parinda (1989) proved to be a major breakthrough. The role earned him the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor and a Filmfare Award.

Patekar made his directorial debut with Prahaar: The Final Attack, in which he also played the lead role of an Army officer. He subsequently appeared in films including Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman, Angaar and Tirangaa.

His portrayal of Majid Khan in Angaar (1992) earned him the Filmfare Award for Best Villain. He went on to deliver one of his most acclaimed performances in Krantiveer (1994), playing Pratap Narayan Tilak, a troubled man who turns against corruption and injustice. The performance won him the National Film Award for Best Actor.

Patekar continued to receive critical acclaim in the 1990s, including for Agni Sakshi (1996), where he portrayed a psychologically troubled and abusive husband. The role earned him another National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor.

He was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2013 for his contribution to cinema and the arts.

Patekar remained active in the film industry in his later years. His final film was reportedly Subedaar, released on Prime Video in 2026, in which he appeared alongside Anil Kapoor and Radhika Madan.

His death marks the end of a long and influential career in Indian cinema.