The death of veteran actor Nana Patekar has left the Indian film industry and his countless admirers mourning. While fans gathered in Pune to pay their final respects, one question emerged after the actor’s last rites were performed late at night: why did the family conduct the funeral after sunset, despite traditional customs generally favouring cremation before dusk?
Nana Patekar’s son, Malhar Patekar, has now explained the circumstances behind the decision. Speaking to the media after the funeral, Malhar said the family was in Goa when his father passed away early on Thursday, October 8. Transporting the actor’s mortal remains to their farmhouse in Donje village, Pune district, took considerably longer than expected.
According to Malhar, the family had hoped to reach the farmhouse sooner. However, the long journey caused delays, and they decided that postponing the last rites any further would not be appropriate.
Malhar Patekar Explains the Family’s Difficult Decision
Malhar’s explanation highlighted the difficult circumstances faced by the family following Nana Patekar’s sudden death. The actor passed away in Goa in the early hours of Thursday, leaving his loved ones with little time to prepare for the final journey.
The family had to arrange transportation from Goa to the farmhouse in Pune, where Nana had wished to be cremated. Because the journey took longer than anticipated, the last rites could not be completed during daylight hours.
Malhar clarified that the timing was a result of the circumstances rather than a deliberate decision to disregard tradition. The family ultimately proceeded with the cremation late on Thursday night.
The explanation has helped address questions surrounding the timing of the funeral while offering a glimpse into the practical difficulties the family faced during an emotionally devastating day.
Nana Patekar Receives a State Funeral in Pune
Nana Patekar was cremated with full state honours at his farmhouse in Donje village, on the outskirts of Pune. His final journey drew a large crowd of admirers, alongside members of the film industry, political leaders and people associated with his social initiatives.
The funeral included a ceremonial salute as a mark of respect for the veteran actor’s contribution to Indian cinema and Marathi theatre. His son, Malhar, performed the final rites and lit the funeral pyre.
Several prominent personalities attended to pay their respects, including actor Jackie Shroff and filmmakers Anil Sharma and Anees Bazmee. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and other political figures also expressed their condolences.
The gathering reflected the enormous affection Nana commanded across different sections of society. For many, he was not simply a celebrated actor but a public figure who had used his influence to support people facing hardship.
Malhar Patekar Promises to Continue His Father’s Social Work
Beyond the funeral arrangements, Malhar spoke emotionally about the legacy his father had left behind. He indicated that Nana’s work for society would continue, particularly in areas such as education and healthcare.
Malhar said that people like his father do not truly disappear because their work and values continue to influence others. He also spoke about the family’s social initiatives, which extend from Maharashtra to Jammu and Kashmir.
He promised to ensure that unfinished responsibilities would be addressed and that the work Nana cared deeply about would move forward. His remarks offered reassurance to those who had followed the actor’s involvement in charitable and community-based initiatives.
The commitment is significant because social service was an important part of Nana’s life away from cinema. Through his work with Naam Foundation, associated with actor Makarand Anaspure, he supported efforts aimed at helping drought-affected communities and farmers in Maharashtra.
Nana Patekar’s Contribution Went Beyond Films
Nana Patekar built a remarkable career through performances that combined intensity, realism and emotional depth. He earned widespread recognition for films such as Parinda, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Ab Tak Chhappan, Natsamrat and Welcome.
His ability to portray complex characters made him one of the most distinctive performers in Indian cinema. He received three National Film Awards during his career and was honoured with the Padma Shri in 2013.
However, his public identity was not limited to acting. Nana was also known for his straightforward personality and involvement in social causes. His work supporting farmers and communities affected by drought earned him respect beyond the entertainment industry.
That wider contribution was reflected in the large number of people who gathered in Pune to bid him farewell.
Nana Patekar’s Final Journey Leaves an Emotional Impact
Nana Patekar’s death at 75 has brought an extraordinary career to a close. His passing on October 8, 2026, was followed by tributes from actors, filmmakers, political leaders and fans who remembered his talent and his commitment to social work.
The explanation provided by Malhar has also brought attention to the family’s experience during those difficult hours. Having to transport his father’s mortal remains from Goa and organise the funeral in Pune made an already painful day more challenging.
Despite the late-night ceremony, the final farewell was marked by state honours and a strong public presence.
Malhar Patekar Vows to Keep His Father’s Legacy Alive
For Malhar, the days ahead will involve not only coping with a personal loss but also carrying forward the responsibilities his father valued. His promise to continue the family’s social work suggests that Nana Patekar’s influence will remain visible through initiatives beyond the film industry.
As fans remember the actor’s most powerful performances, his son’s words have added another dimension to his legacy: a commitment to keeping his humanitarian work alive.
Nana Patekar’s final rites may have taken place after sunset because of unavoidable travel delays, but the tributes in Pune reflected the lasting impact of a man whose work reached far beyond the screen.
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