Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has paid an emotional tribute to veteran Indian actor Nana Patekar, remembering him as a close friend and a warm-hearted person whose popularity extended beyond India. Ali recalled their bond, sharing how the actor stood by him during difficult times, including his mother’s illness and his own health struggles.
In a video message, Ali expressed his grief over Patekar’s reported demise at the age of 75 following a cardiac arrest at his residence in Goa early Thursday morning.
“Sad news. He was a very dear brother to us, a friend, and a living legend. Now he is no longer with us in this world. Nana Patekar Sahib has passed away,” Ali said.
According to Dr Shekhar Salkar of Manipal Hospital, medical professionals tried to revive the actor for around 45 minutes to an hour, but their efforts were unsuccessful.
Recalling how their friendship began, Ali said their conversations started in 2019 and gradually developed into a close bond. He also shared how Patekar remained in touch during his mother’s illness and offered support to his family.
“What can I say about him? The way he was as a person reflected in his acting. We had nicknamed Latif as ‘Nana’ because of Nana Patekar. We first began talking in 2019. That was when our conversations started. We used to talk occasionally. When my mother was in the hospital, Nana ji would call every week. He would offer prayers, talk at length with my mother, and share old stories,” Ali recalled.
The former Pakistan cricketer also remembered the actor’s words of comfort after his mother’s death.
“When my mother passed away, he said, ‘Now take a little extra care of yourself’,” Ali added.
Ali further revealed that Patekar had checked on him when he was recovering from heart surgery, highlighting the actor’s concern for the people close to him.
“When I had my heart problem and was recovering, he sent me a message asking, ‘How are you? Call me when you get better.’ So, as soon as I felt well enough, I called him. He asked me how I was doing and showed genuine concern for my health,” he said.
Describing Patekar as a wonderful human being, Ali said the actor’s real-life personality was much like the characters audiences saw on screen. He also recalled their playful conversations about the actor’s films and performances.
“He was a wonderful human being. People who don’t know him personally and have only seen him in films might not realise that he was exactly the same in real life as he appeared to be. People used to praise him. We developed such a good rapport and had the opportunity to speak so often,” Ali said.
“We would ask him about scenes in his films, and he would playfully respond, ‘Shut up! What do you know?’ And the affection he showed us was truly remarkable. As someone who was senior to us, he gave us so much love and respect. I still cannot believe this news. It is very difficult to accept,” he added.
Patekar, known for his intense performances and distinctive dialogue delivery, built a celebrated career across Hindi and Marathi cinema. His notable films include Parinda, Krantiveer and Salaam Bombay!.
Concluding his tribute, Ali highlighted the actor’s popularity in Pakistan, saying his appeal went far beyond national boundaries.
“I want to say one thing here: Just as Nana ji had countless admirers in India, he had just as many admirers in Pakistan. People here like and admire him very much,” Ali said.
