Veteran actor Nana Patekar, who passed away at the age of 75 on Thursday morning (October 8, 2026), will be cremated with full State honours, the Maharashtra government said.
Maharashtra Cultural Affairs Minister Ashish Shelar said the decision was taken in view of Mr. Patekar’s immense contribution to Marathi and Hindi cinema and theatre. Mr. Patekar passed away in the early hours on Thursday in Goa.
Leaders, film fraternity mourn Nana Patekar’s death | Updates
“The decision about the location of the funeral will be taken by the family - whether it will be in Pune or in Mumbai. The government will make the necessary arrangements,” an official said.
Speaking with reporters in Nagpur, Minister Ashish Shelar said that Mr. Patekar had carved a niche for himself and had risen from humble background. “He faced many periods of struggle in his life; there were times when he had to contend with stalwarts in the field of acting. Yet, he carved out a distinct identity for himself. Whether in Hindi films, Marathi films, or Marathi theatre, his performances and characters were defined by a powerful voice and exceptional acting prowess. He was also deeply involved in social causes—championing the rights of farmers and the youth, fighting against addiction, and advocating for water conservation. Whenever a voice was needed on these issues, Nana Patekar stood firm. He was a forthright person who expressed his views with great clarity. He exercised his right to speak his mind, always driven by a sense of genuine sincerity—something we have all witnessed”
“His passing deals a severe and painful blow to the worlds of Marathi theatre, Marathi and Hindi cinema, and the art of acting. I have been in touch with the Chief Minister’s Office regarding the collective sentiments of the people of Maharashtra. The government will take a decision concerning his last rites. On behalf of the government and the Department of Cultural Affairs, I pay him my heartfelt tribute,” Mr. Shelar said.
Maharashtra’s political leaders remembered the veteran actor for his rich contributions to Marathi theatre and cinema.
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said Mr. Patekar’s contribution for farmers’ upliftment will not be forgotten. His organisation Naam Foundation worked for farmers’ welfare in the drought prone regions of Maharashtra.
