The Hindi film industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Nana Patekar, whose powerful performances and unmistakable screen presence made him one of the most respected names in Indian cinema. As news of his passing spread, tributes began pouring in from colleagues and friends who had worked with him and known him closely over the years. Among those remembering the actor were Ajay Devgn and veteran action director Sham Kaushal, who shared deeply personal messages about Nana and the lasting impression he left behind.
Ajay Devgn remembered Nana Patekar for his extraordinary ability to connect with audiences and make them experience a wide range of emotions. Sharing a heartfelt tribute, Ajay wrote, “Not many made us happy, sad and feel anger quite the way Nana did. His presence was powerful, his performances unforgettable, and his absence will now be deeply felt. Rest well, Nana… Om Shanti.” The actor’s words captured the unique quality that made Nana such a compelling performer and acknowledged the void his absence will leave in the film industry.
Sham Kaushal, father of actor Vicky Kaushal and one of Bollywood’s leading action directors, shared an especially emotional tribute as he remembered his decades-long friendship with Nana. Sham revealed that photographs taken on September 21, 2026, at Nana’s Pune farmhouse during Ganpati Puja were now his last pictures with the actor. He recalled their 36 year friendship with affection, describing Nana as a friend and brother who remained by his side during some of the most difficult moments of his life.
Remembering the beginning of their professional journey, Sham revealed that Nana gave him his first Hindi film, Prahaar, as an action director. He also recalled how Nana stood by him like a rock when his chances of survival were uncertain and he needed support the most. For Sham, Nana was far more than a colleague from the film industry; he was someone who offered friendship, encouragement and support for decades, making the loss particularly difficult to process.
Sham also shared that he was sitting at Nana’s Pune farmhouse while remembering the beautiful moments they had spent together. Despite being surrounded by memories of their friendship, he admitted that he was still unable to believe that Nana was no more. His emotional words offered a glimpse into the personal bond they shared away from the cameras and film sets, while also showing just how deeply the veteran actor was cherished by those who knew him closely.
From Ajay Devgn remembering Nana’s unforgettable performances to Sham Kaushal recalling a friendship that spanned 36 years, the tributes paint a picture of an actor who made a lasting impact both on screen and in the lives of people around him. Nana Patekar’s powerful performances could make audiences laugh, cry, feel anger and reflect, while his relationships with colleagues created memories that will continue to live on. As the film industry bids farewell, his work and legacy remain firmly etched in the hearts of cinema lovers.