Archive · 8 Oct 2026
Nana Patekar: Theatre Actor, Film Star and Philanthropist
Nana Patekar became famous as an actor, but acting was not the only important part of his life.
He started out performing in theatre and kept returning to the stage.
He later acted in many films and also directed one.
The article describes him as a loyal friend who helped protect fellow actor Ashok Saraf during a dangerous crowd incident.
Nana also gave money to charities and helped create a foundation for farmers and rural communities.
His friends remembered him as caring and generous, even though the public sometimes saw him as intimidating.
He also enjoyed making food for people who were hungry.
The article presents him as someone who cared more about helping others than being famous.
Nana Patekar began in theatre and remained closely connected to the stage throughout his career.
He moved into films after encouragement from Ashok Saraf and filmmaker Jabbar Patel.
His film credits included Parinda, Krantiveer, Tiranga, Agni Sakshi, Hu Tu Tu and Rajneeti.
The article says he gave half his earnings for years to the Amte Ashram and supported other charitable causes.
He joined Makarand Anaspure to establish Naam Foundation, which supports farmers and rural communities in Maharashtra.
- Who
- Nana Patekar, actor, theatre performer and philanthropist.
- What
- A profile of his theatre and film career, friendships and charitable work.
- When
- The article recounts events across his career, including a 1978–79 theatre performance and aid during the 1999 Kargil War.
- Where
- Theatre and film settings in Maharashtra and elsewhere in India; his charitable work included the Amte Ashram and rural Maharashtra.
- Why
- To portray the less-public side of Patekar and emphasize his commitment to theatre, friends and charitable causes.
- Birth name
- Vishwanath Gajanan Patekar
- Early theatre role
- Pahije Jaatiche, a one-act play by Vijay Tendulkar
- Selected films
- Parinda, Krantiveer, Tiranga, Agni Sakshi, Hu Tu Tu and Rajneeti
- Charitable giving
- The article says he gave 50 per cent of his earnings to the Amte Ashram for years.
- Foundation
- Naam Foundation, established with Makarand Anaspure to help farmers and rural communities in Maharashtra
- Military service
- He served in the Territorial Army, reached the rank of Honorary Lieutenant Colonel and lent his services during the 1999 Kargil War.