The loss of veteran actor Nana Patekar has left the film industry and his countless admirers heartbroken. As family members, friends and fans gathered to bid him a final farewell, his son, Malhar Patekar, shared an emotional message about his father’s life, values and the work he leaves behind.
After Nana Patekar’s funeral at his farmhouse on the outskirts of Pune late on Thursday night, Malhar spoke to reporters and said that his father would never truly be gone. According to him, Nana’s contribution through cinema and social service would keep his memory alive for generations.
For Malhar, his father’s legacy is not limited to his celebrated performances. It also lies in his vision of helping people, bringing communities together and making a difference in the lives of those who need support.
‘A Person Like Nana Saheb Never Truly Leaves Us’
Speaking about his father’s legacy, Malhar said that people who dedicate their lives to meaningful work continue to live through what they leave behind.
“A person like Nana Saheb never truly leaves us. Through their work, they become immortal,” he said.
Malhar also remembered the message his father frequently shared about humanity and collective responsibility. Nana believed that people should come together to make the world a better place, and this philosophy remained central to his social work.
Malhar recalled his father’s words: “Let’s get together in the name of humanity and work for the betterment of the world.”
The message reflected the values Nana wanted people to follow, beyond their personal differences or professional identities. For him, helping others was not simply an act of charity but a responsibility that everyone could share.
Naam Foundation’s Work Will Continue
One of the most important parts of Nana Patekar’s life away from cinema was his involvement in social initiatives through the Naam Foundation, which he co-founded with fellow actor Makarand Anaspure.
The foundation has been associated with efforts to support drought-affected communities and address water-related challenges, particularly in Maharashtra. Its work reflects Nana’s concern for rural communities and people struggling with difficult living conditions.
Malhar confirmed that work in the water sector was already underway and that larger initiatives in education and healthcare had also begun in Kashmir.
He explained that his father had assigned responsibilities to people before his death, giving the family and those involved in the organisation a clear direction to continue the work.
His remarks offered reassurance that the social causes Nana cared about would not come to a halt with his passing. Instead, his family and associates intend to carry forward the vision he worked towards.
Why Was Nana Patekar’s Funeral Held Late at Night?
Malhar also explained why the family proceeded with Nana’s last rites late on Thursday night.
The actor had died in Goa earlier that morning, and his mortal remains had to be transported to the family farmhouse near Pune. According to Malhar, the journey took longer than expected, delaying the arrival of the body.
“We were in Goa, and his mortal remains were to be brought to the farmhouse in the village. We expected it to arrive earlier, but it took us some time,” he explained.
He added that the family decided to complete the last rites that night because considerable time had already passed since the tragedy occurred early in the morning.
The funeral took place at around 11:30 PM, with Malhar performing the final rites. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and other dignitaries were among those present, while thousands of fans gathered to pay their respects. Nana was cremated with full state honours.
Nana Patekar’s Final Hours
Nana Patekar reportedly suffered a severe cardiac arrest at his residence in Goa on Thursday morning. According to reports, he had contacted a friend during the early hours after feeling uneasy.
He was subsequently taken to Manipal Hospital, where doctors attempted to revive him for approximately 45 minutes. Dr Shekhar Salkar, chief of the hospital’s oncology department, confirmed the news of his death to ANI.
His sudden passing came as a shock to admirers across the country. Known for his powerful screen presence and straightforward personality, Nana had spent decades building a reputation as one of Indian cinema’s most distinctive performers.
A Legacy That Goes Beyond Films
Nana Patekar’s career spanned Hindi and Marathi cinema, with memorable performances in films such as Parinda, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Khamoshi: The Musical, Ab Tak Chhappan, Welcome and Natsamrat. His ability to portray complex characters earned him widespread recognition and several prestigious awards.
Yet, his contribution to society remains another important part of his story. Through his involvement in social work, he showed that an artist’s influence could extend far beyond the screen.
Malhar’s words after the funeral captured this idea clearly. He spoke not only as a son grieving the loss of his father but also as someone determined to protect the values his father believed in.
Nana Patekar may no longer be present, but his films, his work for communities and the people he inspired will continue to carry his memory forward. For his family, the responsibility now is to ensure that his commitment to humanity lives on through action.
His son’s message was simple but powerful: Nana Saheb’s life may have ended, but the work he began will continue.
