In a post on social media platform X, Modi said Patekar brought “remarkable versatility and creativity” to every role and created characters that would remain etched in the memories of audiences for generations.
“Few actors possessed the intensity, individuality and unmistakable presence that Shri Nana Patekar Ji had. He brought remarkable versatility and creativity to every role and gave us characters that will be remembered for generations,” the Prime Minister said.
Modi also recalled Patekar’s forthright personality and his willingness to express his views without hesitation. “He was also admired for his frank and forthright views, never hesitating to express what he believed in,” he said.
Paying tribute to the actor’s contribution to both Hindi and Marathi cinema, Modi said, “Shri Nana Patekar’s contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema was immense. His passing leaves a deep void. My condolences to his family, friends and countless admirers. Om Shanti.”
Patekar, who died in Goa on Thursday at the age of 75, had carved out a distinctive place in Indian cinema through a career spanning Hindi and Marathi films, theatre and filmmaking. Renowned for his powerful performances and intense screen presence, he developed an acting style that was unmistakably his own and enabled him to portray characters across a remarkable emotional and dramatic range.
With his distinctive voice, expressive intensity and ability to convey both vulnerability and raw strength, Patekar became associated with some of Indian cinema’s most memorable performances. His work in films such as Parinda, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Ab Tak Chhappan and Natsamrat demonstrated the breadth of his craft and earned him admiration across generations.
Beyond the screen, Patekar remained closely associated with theatre and Marathi cinema and also established himself as a filmmaker. His career reflected an artistic journey that moved freely between mainstream Hindi cinema, regional cinema and the stage, helping him build a reputation as one of the country’s most distinctive and versatile performers.
His death has triggered an outpouring of tributes from the political, cinematic and cultural worlds, with admirers remembering both his formidable body of work and his outspoken, uncompromising personality.
Modi’s tribute underscored the lasting influence of an actor whose performances crossed linguistic and cinematic boundaries and whose memorable characters are likely to remain part of India’s cultural memory for generations.
UNI SKA ARN
