GOA: Fearless and legendary Bollywood actor Nana Patekar is no longer in this world. Active even at 75 and always fighting for farmers’ rights, Nana Patekar passed away late at night on October 7 after suffering a cardiac arrest. He was pronounced dead at a hospital in Goa at 5:20 AM. His sudden demise has left fans completely shattered.
No Fear of Death, Already Collected 12 Maunds of Wood
Nana Patekar’s views on death were always unique and deeply realistic. In an interview given to a prominent media outlet two years ago (in 2023), he spoke candidly about his life and death.
In that interview, he revealed that he had already made complete preparations for his final rites and had stored 12 maunds of wood for himself, which he considered his true and only asset.
He stated that while people in the glitz and glamour of showbiz change themselves and get busy hoarding wealth, he never turned away from reality because everyone has to leave this world one day.
In a humorous yet realistic tone, he also requested that his body not be cremated using wet wood, explaining that the smoke from wet wood would enter the eyes of friends standing around, making them uncomfortable and watering up, leading him to the false illusion that his friends were weeping for him.
Life is a Stage and Borrowed Time
Comparing life to a drama or a stage, Nana Patekar said that we spend our entire lives living for others or playing different roles, never getting the chance to live for ourselves. Reflecting on an artist’s life, he remarked that our identity is tied to the sound of applause, and the day that sound stops will be equivalent to death.
Desire Not to Display Photographs After Death and to Meet His Mother
Speaking about life and memories after death, Nana Patekar said that the world forgets everyone, which is why his wish was that no photograph of his should be hung on a wall after his passing.
Recalling his family background, he shared that all seven of his siblings had passed away, leaving him entirely alone. He harbored a firm belief that upon leaving this world, the very first person he would meet is his mother, as his heart still told him that she is alive.
