Amitabh Bachchan honoured veteran actor Nana Patekar during Kaun Banega Crorepati 18, remembering a performer whose contribution to Indian cinema was matched by his commitment to social causes. The tribute followed Patekar’s death at the age of 75 in Goa on October 8, 2026.
The special remembrance was featured at the beginning of the television quiz show’s episode on Thursday. Bachchan spoke about Patekar’s artistic achievements, direct approach to life and efforts to help farmers in Maharashtra facing water shortages. Sony TV also shared the tribute through its official social media account.
Bachchan’s message reflected a relationship that extended beyond their shared profession. The two actors had worked together in the 1999 film Kohram, directed by Mehul Kumar, and Patekar had previously appeared on Kaun Banega Crorepati as a guest.
Amitabh Bachchan recalls Patekar’s honesty and individuality
During the tribute, Bachchan remembered Patekar as a friend and an artist who remained committed to his principles. He spoke about the late actor’s straightforwardness, simplicity and willingness to express his views openly.
Bachchan also reflected on the personal impact of Patekar’s death, describing it as a loss not only for the film industry but also for the people who had known him.
The tribute concluded with a personal acknowledgment of the dedication Patekar brought to his craft. Rather than focusing solely on his filmography, Bachchan drew attention to the values and actions that had shaped his friend’s public image.
Nana Patekar’s work for drought-hit farmers
One of the central themes of Bachchan’s remembrance was Patekar’s involvement in social work, particularly his efforts to support farming communities in Maharashtra.
Patekar co-founded the Naam Foundation with fellow actor Makarand Anaspure in 2015. The organisation was established to assist communities affected by drought and water scarcity, with initiatives focused on water conservation and rural support.
Bachchan recalled Patekar’s earlier appearance on Kaun Banega Crorepati, during which the actor dedicated his prize money to a social cause. He highlighted Patekar’s efforts to help farmers in villages struggling with inadequate rainfall.
This aspect of Patekar’s life added another dimension to his legacy. His public profile was built on performances across Hindi and Marathi cinema, but his work with rural communities also became an important part of how he was remembered.
A career spanning Hindi and Marathi cinema
Patekar built a career lasting around five decades, earning recognition for performances in a wide range of films. His work included Parinda, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Khamoshi: The Musical, Ab Tak Chhappan, Natsamrat and Welcome. He received three National Film Awards during his career.
His filmography crossed genres, from intense crime dramas to mainstream commercial entertainment. His work in Marathi theatre and cinema was also an important part of his artistic identity.
In a 2024 appearance on Kaun Banega Crorepati, Patekar spoke about his preference for a quieter life away from the glamour of the film industry. He described himself as someone who remained connected to village life, his farm and everyday routines.
Nana Patekar’s final farewell in Pune
Patekar died in Goa on October 8, 2026, at the age of 75. Reuters reported that he was found unconscious at his residence and that Manipal Hospital confirmed cardiac arrest as the cause of death.
Later that day, the actor was cremated with state honours at his farmhouse, known as Nanachi Wadi, in Donje village near Pune, Maharashtra. His death prompted tributes from colleagues, public figures and admirers of his work.
For viewers who watched Bachchan’s tribute, the remembrance brought together two parts of Patekar’s public life: the actor whose performances left a mark on Indian cinema and the social worker who directed attention towards the difficulties faced by rural communities.
1. What did Amitabh Bachchan say about Nana Patekar on KBC?
Amitabh Bachchan paid tribute to Patekar’s acting, honesty, straightforward nature and social work. He also remembered the late actor as a friend and reflected on the loss felt by those who knew him.
2. When did Nana Patekar die?
Nana Patekar died on October 8, 2026, at the age of 75. He died in Goa, with cardiac arrest reported as the cause.
3. Where was Nana Patekar cremated?
Patekar was cremated with state honours at his farmhouse in Donje village near Pune, Maharashtra, on October 8, 2026.
4. Did Amitabh Bachchan and Nana Patekar work together?
Yes. They appeared together in the 1999 film Kohram, directed by Mehul Kumar. Patekar also appeared as a guest on Bachchan’s television show, Kaun Banega Crorepati.
5. What was Nana Patekar known for besides acting?
Patekar was associated with social initiatives supporting drought-affected farming communities in Maharashtra. He co-founded the Naam Foundation with Makarand Anaspure in 2015.
6. What is the Naam Foundation?
The Naam Foundation is an organisation co-founded by Nana Patekar and Makarand Anaspure to help communities facing drought and water scarcity, particularly in Maharashtra. Its work includes water-related initiatives and support for rural communities.
7. Which are Nana Patekar’s notable films?
His notable films include Parinda, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Khamoshi: The Musical, Ab Tak Chhappan, Natsamrat and Welcome. His career included both Hindi and Marathi cinema.
8. Where can viewers watch the KBC tribute?
The tribute was featured on Kaun Banega Crorepati 18, and Sony TV shared it on its official social media account. Viewers should check the official Sony TV or Sony LIV platforms for available footage and episode access.
