Indian cricket star Virat Kohli has expressed his grief following the death of veteran actor Nana Patekar, whose passing on Thursday, October 8, prompted tributes from across the worlds of cinema, sport and public life. Kohli remembered the actor for the lasting impact of his work and the legacy he leaves behind.
In a post on social media, Kohli described Patekar as an important figure in Indian cinema and said the influence of his work would continue for generations. He concluded his message by offering his respects to the late actor.
Patekar died at the age of 75 at his residence in Goa after suffering a cardiac emergency. He was subsequently taken for medical treatment, but efforts to revive him were unsuccessful. His death came as a shock to many because there had been no major public indication of a serious health condition beforehand.
Nana Patekar Had a Strong Connection With Cricket
The relationship between Patekar and cricket was not limited to being a spectator. The actor had spoken publicly about his interest in the sport and had played cricket during his younger years. His admiration for Virat Kohli was also well known.
An older video of Patekar discussing Kohli resurfaced following his death. In it, the actor spoke enthusiastically about the Indian batter and his performances, highlighting the strong interest he took in Kohli's batting.
That connection added another dimension to Kohli's tribute, with the Indian cricketer joining several sporting personalities who remembered the actor after his death.
Cricket Fraternity Also Mourns the Actor
Kohli was not the only prominent cricketer to pay respects. Former India batter Sachin Tendulkar also remembered Patekar, highlighting the actor's grounded personality and the authenticity he brought to characters in both Hindi and Marathi cinema. Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan also expressed his condolences and praised the influence of Patekar's work.
The tributes reflected Patekar's reach beyond the film industry. His performances had made him a familiar figure to generations of Indian audiences, while his interest in cricket created an additional connection with sports fans.
A Career Spanning Hindi and Marathi Cinema
Patekar built a career spanning several decades and became known for his intense performances and distinctive screen presence. He made his Hindi-film debut with Gaman in 1978 and subsequently appeared in a wide range of critically acclaimed and commercially successful films.
Among the notable titles associated with his career are Parinda, Prahar, Krantiveer, Tiranga, Khamoshi: The Musical and Ab Tak Chhappan. His contribution to Indian cinema was recognised with three National Film Awards, while he was also honoured with the Padma Shri in 2013.
Away from acting, Patekar was also associated with social initiatives, particularly efforts connected with farmers and communities affected by drought in Maharashtra. His work outside cinema further contributed to his public profile.
With tributes continuing to arrive after his death, Kohli's message highlighted the enduring place Patekar occupies in Indian cultural life. For audiences who followed his work across Hindi and Marathi cinema, his performances remain an important part of the country's film legacy.
