Archive · 8 Oct 2026
Nana Patekar Recalled Serving With Army During Kargil War
Nana Patekar said he wanted to help Indian soldiers during the Kargil War in 1999.
He asked to join the troops, but was told the Defence Minister had to give permission.
Patekar said he contacted George Fernandes and explained that he had trained with the Maratha Light Infantry for three years.
Fernandes then allowed him to go, according to Patekar.
Patekar said he spent about 60 days near the Line of Control with Army personnel.
He visited several places, including Dras and Srinagar.
He also said he joined a Quick Reaction Team and helped at a military hospital for six days.
He described the hospital work as distressing.
He later shared the story on Kaun Banega Crorepati.
Nana Patekar said he paused his acting career and sought permission to join Indian troops during the 1999 Kargil War.
He said he had trained with the Maratha Light Infantry for three years while preparing for his 1991 film Prahaar.
Patekar recalled that Defence Minister George Fernandes approved his request after hearing about his training.
He said he spent about 60 days with Army personnel in August 1999, visiting Dras, Leh, Kupwara, Baramulla and Sopore and joining a Quick Reaction Team.
Patekar said he worked for six days at a military hospital in Srinagar, where fallen soldiers’ remains were prepared for return to their hometowns.
- Who
- Actor Nana Patekar, Indian Army personnel and then Defence Minister George Fernandes.
- What
- Patekar said he received permission to join troops during the Kargil conflict and spent time with them, including as part of a Quick Reaction Team and working at a military hospital.
- When
- August 1999; he recounted the experience on Kaun Banega Crorepati in August 2024.
- Where
- The Kargil conflict zone near the Line of Control, including Dras, Leh, Kupwara, Baramulla and Sopore; he also worked at a military hospital in Srinagar.
- Why
- Patekar said he wanted to support the troops and serve his country.
- Conflict
- Kargil War, 1999
- Time with troops
- About 60 days, according to Patekar
- Prior training
- Three years with the Maratha Light Infantry, according to Patekar
- Permission
- Patekar said Defence Minister George Fernandes granted permission
- Team role
- Patekar said he was part of a Quick Reaction Team
- Hospital work
- He said he worked for six days at a military hospital in Srinagar
- Weight recalled
- Patekar said he weighed 76 kg on reaching Srinagar and 56 kg when he returned
