Veteran Bollywood actor Nana Patekar passed away on October 8, 2026, at the age of 75, leaving a huge void in Indian cinema. One of the finest actors the Hindi film industry has ever produced, Nana was known for his powerful dialogue delivery, natural acting and ability to perform almost every kind of role with equal perfection.
Whether it was a serious character, a comedy role or an emotional family drama, Nana Patekar made every performance memorable. His contribution to Indian cinema earned him three National Film Awards, including the Best Actor award for Krantiveer. He was also honoured with the Padma Shri in 2013.
While almost everyone knows about his achievements in Bollywood, very few are aware of his deep connection with cricket and shooting. Interestingly, Nana was not just a cricket lover but also played the game himself and was a talented off-spin bowler.
Nana Patekar’s Special Love for Virat Kohli and Cricket
Nana Patekar had a special place in his heart for cricket. During his younger days, he used to bowl off-spin and played cricket at Mumbai’s famous Shivaji Park, a ground that has produced several legendary Indian cricketers.
However, what makes his connection with cricket even more interesting is his immense admiration for former Indian captain Virat Kohli.
During an interview, Nana once revealed how much he loved watching Kohli bat. His admiration was so strong that whenever Kohli got dismissed early, he would lose his appetite and would not feel like eating.
This simple statement showed how emotionally attached Nana was to Kohli’s batting. For someone who had achieved so much success in his own profession, his love for cricket was just like that of an ordinary Indian fan who never wanted his favourite batter to get out.
Apart from Kohli, Nana was also a great admirer of legendary Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar. He shared a warm relationship with Gavaskar and enjoyed meeting him whenever possible.
Nana Patekar’s Unfulfilled Dream Involving India’s 1983 World Cup Heroes
One of Nana Patekar’s most beautiful wishes was connected to India’s historic 1983 World Cup-winning team.
Nana wanted to invite the members of India’s 1983 World Cup-winning squad to his farmhouse and host a special dinner for them.
It was his own way of showing love and respect to the cricketers who had given India one of its greatest sporting moments.
Unfortunately, Nana could not fulfil this wish during his lifetime. His dream of bringing together the heroes of India’s first Cricket World Cup triumph remained incomplete.
Nana Patekar Was Also a Talented Shooter
Apart from his love for cricket, Nana Patekar had a serious interest in shooting and even represented Maharashtra in national-level competitions.
In 2007, he was part of the Maharashtra team that won a bronze medal at the National 300m Big Bore Shooting Championship held in Mhow. His achievements in shooting showed that his talent was not limited to the film industry.
Nana also had a strong connection with the Indian Army and was associated with the armed forces during the Kargil conflict.
His love for the country, interest in sports and dedication towards his work made him a personality who was respected far beyond Bollywood.
Nana Patekar Death Leaves a Huge Void in Indian Cinema and Beyond
Nana Patekar may have left this world, but his contribution to Indian cinema and the memories he created will remain alive for generations.
He was a brilliant actor, a passionate cricket fan, a talented shooter and, above all, a man who lived life on his own terms.
For cricket lovers, his admiration for Virat Kohli, respect for Sunil Gavaskar and dream of hosting India’s 1983 World Cup heroes reveal a beautiful side of Nana that many people never knew.
A great artist with a great heart has left us too soon. Indian cinema has lost a legend, and cricket has lost one of its most passionate admirers.
Rest in peace, Nana Patekar.
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