The sudden death of veteran actor Nana Patekar has left the Indian film industry mourning the loss of one of its most distinctive performers. Among those remembering him is actress and politician Hema Malini, who has shared an emotional detail about her last interactions with the actor. She revealed that she had missed a phone call from Patekar because she was travelling, a moment she now regrets following his untimely demise.
Hema Malini expressed shock at the news and described Patekar as an extraordinary artist whose contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema was immense. She also recalled recently watching his web series Sankalp and contacting him to share her appreciation for his performance. Her memories highlight not only his talent but also the personal connections he maintained with fellow artists.
Hema Malini Regrets Missing Nana Patekar’s Last Call
Hema Malini revealed that Nana Patekar had tried to contact her shortly before his death. According to her account, she was travelling when the call came and could not answer it. She later spoke about how shocking it was to hear that the actor had passed away.
Recalling the incident, she indicated that they had spoken recently and that another call had gone unanswered because of her travel commitments. The missed call has taken on a different significance for her after his death, turning an ordinary moment into a painful memory.
The actress expressed disbelief at losing someone she admired so deeply. She said the Hindi and Marathi film industries had lost a great actor, adding that Patekar was an institution in acting in his own right.
Her reaction reflects the shock often felt when a familiar voice or a recent conversation suddenly becomes a final memory. Although she could not answer that particular call, Hema’s recollections show that their professional admiration and communication had continued in the period before his death.
Hema Malini Praised Nana Patekar’s Performance in Sankalp
One of the most touching details shared by Hema Malini was her recent appreciation of Patekar’s performance in Sankalp. She revealed that she had watched the web series and was impressed by his work. She personally called him to tell him how much she had enjoyed the show.
According to Hema, Patekar was happy to hear her praise. The exchange offered a glimpse of the respect the actors had for each other and demonstrated how a colleague’s appreciation could mean a great deal, even to an established performer.
Hema described Patekar as a magnificent artist, pointing to his unique acting style and powerful voice. His performances were often recognised for their intensity, emotional depth and ability to portray complicated characters without relying on conventional glamour.
Her comments also underline that Patekar continued to make an impression on audiences and fellow actors through his later work. For Hema, watching Sankalp had become more than simply catching up with a new project; it had prompted a conversation with a colleague she deeply admired.
A Towering Figure in Hindi and Marathi Cinema
Nana Patekar built a reputation as one of Indian cinema’s most versatile performers. Over several decades, he appeared in films across genres, earning recognition for his ability to move between intense dramatic roles, socially conscious stories and mainstream entertainment.
His notable films include Parinda, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Khamoshi: The Musical, Ab Tak Chhappan, Natsamrat and Welcome. His work in Hindi cinema brought him widespread recognition, while his performances in Marathi projects further strengthened his reputation as a serious and accomplished actor.
Patekar’s style was distinctive. His voice, expressions and restrained yet forceful screen presence helped him create characters that remained memorable long after a film ended. Hema Malini’s description of him as an institution of acting reflects the respect his craft commanded among colleagues.
For many performers, his career represented a reminder that powerful acting depends on conviction and depth rather than merely screen presence. His passing has therefore been felt as a major loss across different sections of the entertainment industry.
Nana Patekar’s Legacy Extended Beyond Films
Hema Malini also remembered Patekar for his dedication to social work. Away from the screen, the actor was associated with efforts to support farmers and underprivileged communities through the Naam Foundation, which he established with actor Makarand Anaspure.

The foundation has worked to assist distressed farming communities, particularly in Maharashtra, and support people facing difficult circumstances. This aspect of Patekar’s life added another dimension to his public identity, beyond his reputation as an intense and accomplished actor.
Hema’s tribute recognised this commitment, suggesting that his contribution could not be measured only through films and awards. His social initiatives were an important part of the legacy he leaves behind.
Bollywood Remembers Nana Patekar
Following the news of Nana Patekar’s death, tributes poured in from actors, filmmakers and public figures. Many remembered his remarkable performances, while others highlighted his generosity, direct personality and work for people in need.
Hema Malini’s account stands out for its personal detail: a missed call, a recent conversation about Sankalp and the admiration she had expressed directly to him. These memories offer a more intimate picture of the actor beyond the public tributes.
Nana Patekar’s death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Indian cinema. While his films will continue to reach new audiences, the recollections of colleagues such as Hema Malini also preserve the human connections behind his long career.
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