Archive · 8 Oct 2026
Why Nana Patekar Refused a Fire Suit in Parinda
Parinda is a film directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra.
Its climax shows Nana Patekar surrounded by flames.
Chopra later explained that the flames were real, not added digitally.
He said Patekar first did not want to wear a fire-protection suit because he thought it would affect his acting.
Chopra insisted that he wear it.
According to Chopra, Patekar put on the top part but skipped the trousers.
Chopra said Patekar's hand caught fire during the scene.
He then jumped into a safe area.
Chopra praised the performance as unforgettable cinema.
Director Vidhu Vinod Chopra recalled how the fiery climax of Parinda was filmed.
Chopra said the flames were real because digital fire was not available at the time.
According to Chopra, Patekar initially resisted wearing a protective fire suit, saying it would hurt his acting.
Chopra said Patekar wore the upper part of the suit but did not wear the protective trousers.
Chopra described Patekar catching fire on his hand before jumping into a safe area.
- Who
- Nana Patekar and director Vidhu Vinod Chopra.
- What
- Chopra recalled that Patekar resisted wearing a full protective suit during Parinda's real-fire climax.
- When
- Chopra shared the recollection in a video posted in 2019, when Parinda marked 30 years.
- Where
- The climax scene was filmed for Parinda; the article does not specify the filming location.
- Why
- Patekar reportedly said the fire suit would hurt his acting.
- Film
- Parinda
- Director
- Vidhu Vinod Chopra
- Release year
- 1989
- Climax effect
- Chopra said real fire was used, with rubber solution.
- Protective suit
- Chopra said Patekar wore the upper part but not the trousers.
- Award
- Patekar won the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor for his role as Anna.
- Anniversary video
- Chopra's recollection was shared in 2019, as the film completed 30 years.