The passing of acclaimed actor Nana Patekar has cast a profound gloom over Indian cinema, spanning both Hindi and Marathi industries. His last rites were solemnized late on the night of October 8 near his farmhouse, Nanachi Wadi, located in the village of Donje close to Pune. As admirers and film fraternity members hoped for a public viewing to pay their respects, the family proceeded with the cremation well after sunset, leaving many unable to catch a final glimpse. Addressing the subsequent questions regarding the timing, his son Malhar Patekar shared the exact circumstances behind the decision and reflected on his father's final concerns.
The Circumstances Behind the Post-Sunset Rites
Traditional customs generally discourage performing funerals after sunset, which made the late-night ceremony an immediate subject of inquiry among followers. Malhar clarified that the family was in Goa when the demise occurred early in the morning. Transporting the mortal remains overland from Goa to the Donje farmhouse required significantly more travel time than originally anticipated.
Because the demise had taken place at dawn, many hours had elapsed by the time the vehicle completed the journey to Pune. Under those circumstances, keeping the body uncremated for another night was considered improper. Consequently, the family resolved to complete the rites without further postponement. Surrounded by solemn relatives, including Nana Patekar's wife Neelakanti, Malhar touched his father's feet, performed the rituals amid chanting, and bade him farewell.
A Legacy Defined by Art and Humanitarian Service
Remembering his father's enduring legacy, Malhar remarked that figures of Nana's stature never truly depart because their creative contributions and philanthropic achievements preserve them in public memory. He noted that his father consistently advocated for human solidarity and urged people to join hands for a better society, maintaining a steady perspective on empathy and collective duty throughout his life.
Father's Last Words Centered on Son's Well-Being
Sharing an emotional recollection of their last discussion, Malhar revealed that his father had been deeply troubled about his son's medical condition rather than his own state. Malhar had been dealing with poor health for several days, an issue that weighed heavily on the veteran actor's mind.
During that final exchange, Nana told Malhar that taking proper care of his health was all that mattered to him. For an artist known publicly for fierce conviction and a commanding persona, this tender priority highlighted his deep devotion as a parent, touching those close to the family.
Carrying Forward the Initiatives of Naam Foundation
Beyond acting, Nana Patekar had invested extensive energy into grassroots social work through the Naam Foundation, focusing on watershed development, rural healthcare, and schooling. Malhar confirmed that these developmental interventions will proceed uninterrupted, noting that his father had systematically assigned duties to ensure ongoing operational stability.
Discussions regarding upcoming rural projects in Marathwada have already taken place with the Chief Minister. The initiatives continue to operate under the executive leadership of Ganesh Thorat, the chief executive officer of Naam Foundation. Malhar affirmed that scaling up these community interventions and realizing his father's broad humanitarian vision now stands as a primary obligation for the family and associates alike.
