Hema Malini expressed deep regret after missing a phone call from Nana Patekar roughly a week before the actor’s death, admitting she could not answer because she was travelling. Patekar passed away at age 75 on October 8, 2026, following a cardiac arrest at his Goa residence, leaving the Hindi and Marathi film industries in profound mourning.
The Bottom Line
- Nana Patekar died at age 75 on October 8, 2026, after suffering a cardiac arrest at his home in Goa.
- Hema Malini revealed she missed a phone call from the late actor approximately a week prior due to her travel schedule.
- Tributes poured in across Indian cinema, with Amitabh Bachchan, Rajinikanth, Akshay Kumar, and numerous others honoring his legacy on screen and through the Naam Foundation.
Hema Malini Remembers a Missed Conversation and a Cinema Institution
Speaking to IANS at an event attended by filmmaker Subhash Ghai, Hema Malini recounted her recent contact with the actor. She shared her shock upon hearing the news of his death and described the loss as a major one for Indian cinema. “He rang a few days back. He spoke to me also. Just about a week back also I had one call, I think. But somehow I missed because I was travelling. So, when I heard today, I was shocked. Our industry, Hindi film and Marathi film industry, has lost such a great actor. He himself was an institution for acting,” Malini stated.
Beyond his extensive filmography across Hindi and Marathi cinema, Malini highlighted Patekar’s deep dedication to social welfare. Taking to X, she honored his tireless work supporting farmers and underprivileged communities through the Naam Foundation. She noted that he carved a unique place for himself with exceptional acting talent and once called her his favorite actress in classic cinema.
Hospitalization and Tributes Across Indian Cinema
As reported by ANI, Patekar was taken to Manipal Hospital in the early hours of Thursday, October 8, 2026, where medical professionals were unable to revive him despite resuscitation efforts. Following his passing, his body was cremated with full state honors at his Pune farmhouse, where thousands gathered to bid an emotional farewell as his son lit the funeral pyre.
Filmmakers and actors from across the country shared their grief. Amitabh Bachchan honored Patekar during Kaun Banega Crorepati 18, remembering him as an extraordinary artist, a close friend, and a steadfast supporter of farmers in drought-hit Maharashtra. Akshay Kumar remembered his Welcome co-star for his striking screen presence, while Rajinikanth acknowledged his immense contributions to cinema.
| Key Figure | Affiliation | Nature of Tribute |
|---|---|---|
| Amitabh Bachchan | Honored him on KBC 18 as an extraordinary artist and close friend. | |
| Akshay Kumar | Remembered his striking screen presence from their time working on Welcome. | |
| Riteish Deshmukh | Described the loss as the “end of an era” citing his acting range. | |
| Alia Bhatt | Shared an Instagram Stories tribute stating he made the world feel deeply. |
Broader Tributes and Legacy Beyond the Screen
Riteish Deshmukh described the loss as the “end of an era,” pointing to Patekar’s extraordinary acting range and memorable characters. Alia Bhatt wrote on Instagram Stories, “Farewell, Nana Sir. You’ve made the world laugh, cry, and feel so much more in between. No one like you.” Kareena Kapoor Khan added, “Rest in power Legend.”
South Indian cinema stars also joined the outpouring of grief. Jr NTR and Prabhu Deva acknowledged Patekar’s remarkable versatility. Meanwhile, Sunny Deol spoke about their special bond despite never having shared screen space, and Bobby Deol remembered the actor’s personal warmth and kindness.
Additional tributes arrived from Karan Johar, Sonu Nigam, Anushka Sharma, Ranveer Singh, Hrithik Roshan, Madhuri Dixit, Anil Kapoor, Suniel Shetty, Arjun Rampal, Farhan Akhtar, Nimrat Kaur, and Jubin Nautiyal.
