Mumbai, Oct 09 (V7N)- Before becoming one of Indian cinema’s most respected actors, Nana Patekar endured years of financial hardship, taking on difficult jobs to support his family and walking long distances to earn a modest living.

The National Film Award-winning actor reportedly died of a heart attack at his residence in Dona Paula, Goa, on Thursday, October 8, at the age of 75.

In an interview with The Times of India, Patekar recalled that he began working while still in school after his father's death to help support his family. One of his early jobs involved painting movie posters in Mumbai's Chunabhatti area, for which he reportedly earned just Rs 35 a month.

He reportedly walked around eight kilometres each day to reach his workplace. Various accounts of his early life also say he worked painting zebra crossings as he struggled to make ends meet.

Family Business Collapses

Born Vishwanath Patekar in Maharashtra in 1951, Nana came from a family that had once enjoyed relative financial stability. His father ran a business, but the family's fortunes reportedly changed after a business partner fraudulently transferred the enterprise into his own name.

The resulting financial crisis forced Nana to shoulder family responsibilities at an age when most children were focused on their education.

Despite the hardships, his interest in acting gradually grew. Patekar credited his father with introducing him to drama and theatre, helping lay the foundation for his future career.

From Theatre to Indian Cinema

Patekar entered the film industry with the 1978 film Gaman, followed by smaller roles, particularly in Marathi cinema. His breakthrough came with the 1986 film Ankush, which brought him wider recognition.

He gained further attention through his performance in Salaam Bombay! in 1988 before establishing himself with films such as Parinda, Prahaar, Krantiveer, Agnisakshi, Khamoshi, Ab Tak Chhappan, Welcome and Natsamrat.

Known for his intense screen presence and powerful dialogue delivery, Patekar demonstrated considerable versatility, portraying emotionally complex characters, antagonists and comic figures throughout his career.

Awards and Recognition

Patekar won three National Film Awards during his career. He received the Best Supporting Actor award for Parinda in 1989, followed by the Best Actor award for Krantiveer in 1994 and Agnisakshi in 1996.

In recognition of his contribution to Indian cinema, he was awarded the Padma Shri in 2013.

His journey from painting film posters for a small monthly wage to becoming an acclaimed performer remains a defining part of his legacy, reflecting the determination that shaped his life and career.

END/SMA/AJ