Happy birthday Nana!



Actor-director Nana Patekar, known for his significant contributions to Hindi and Marathi films, marked his 74th birthday yesterday. Renowned as one of the most exceptional and impactful figures in Indian cinema, Nana has earned three National Film Awards, four Filmfare Awards, and two Filmfare Awards - Marathi for his outstanding performances. In recognition of his artistic achievements, he was honored with the Padma Shri in 2013.


It was in 1986, that I first got enchanted by Nana in the Marathi film Maficha Sakshidar, directed by the renowned Rajdutt, a recipient of three National Film Awards, three Filmfare Awards - Marathi, twelve Maharashtra State Film Awards, the V. Shantaram Award, and the Padmabhushan. The film draws inspiration from real-life events. I was truly amazed by the performance of this slender, non-heroic figure. This experience led me to watch Ankush, a film penned and directed by N Chandra, which also premiered that same year.

This incredible actor has delivered some of the most iconic lines that continue to resonate with his fans. Indian cinema would truly be lacking without his presence. His remarkable contributions to both Hindi and Marathi films are noteworthy, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of performances. He brings a distinctive style to his roles that is unmatched. He embodies the essence of an actor, rather than just a star. With that in mind, here’s an alphabetical list of 10 of my favorite movies featuring Nana Patekar.

Agnisakskhi - Prime Video 

The story of this film revolves around Suraj (Jackie Shroff) and Shivangi (Manisha Koirala), a happily married couple whose peaceful existence is disrupted when Shivangi's long-lost husband, Vishwanath (Nana Patekar), suddenly reenters her life.

Ankush - Sony Liv 

The movie follows the journey of four unemployed young men from the lower middle class in Mumbai, who find themselves feeling alienated from the world around them and squandering their potential. However, their lives take a turn when they meet their new neighbors, a charming young woman named Anita and her grandmother. This encounter inspires the men to shift their outlook and strive to integrate into the honest, diligent society of the 1980s.

Hu Tu Tu - YouTube

Hu Tu Tu could be seen as Gulzar's political manifesto. This raw and unyielding declaration posed challenges for both the audience and the box office. It's a powerful collaboration between Gulzar and Nana.

Krantiveer - YouTube

Nana portrays Pratap Narayan Tilak, a rebellious and free-spirited individual who transforms into a fierce champion of justice upon witnessing the rampant injustices, communal strife, and corruption that plague society.

Maficha Sakshidar - YouTube

This Marathi film is inspired by the infamous Joshi-Abhyankar serial murders that occurred in Pune between 1976 and 1977. It explores the harrowing tale of four commercial art students who were sentenced to death after being found guilty of committing ten murders.

Natsamrat - Prime Video 

One of the most beloved Marathi films celebrated globally is Natasamrat. This poignant tale follows the life of Ganpat, a distinguished Shakespearean actor, who descends into confusion and eccentricity after retiring. After facing rejection from his children due to his unconventional ways, he sets out on a profound journey of self-discovery, which serves as the central theme of the film.

Parinda - Prime Video

This gripping crime drama from Vidhu Vinod Chopra immerses you in the shadowy depths of the underworld, featuring a standout performance by Nana Patekar as a ruthless gangster.

Prahaar: The Final Attack - YouTube

This film, helmed by Nana himself, tells the story of a retired army officer who dedicates his life to educating others on how to advocate for social justice.

Wajood - YouTube

Nana delivers a standout performance as one of his most eccentric characters in N. Chandra's Wajood. Driven by an intense desire to be with his beloved, Madhuri Dixit, he embarks on a tumultuous journey. Yet, in his complete ignorance of the one-sided nature of their romance, he finds himself drawn into the world of crime.

Welcome - Prime Video

Nana's outstanding portrayal of Uday Shetty in Welcome is something that memes and reels simply can't capture. As part of one of the legendary comedy franchises in Hindi cinema, his impeccable comic timing and the undeniable chemistry he shares with Anil Kapoor are truly unparalleled.


No matter how many memes and reels are out there, they just can't capture Nana's different portrayals like they deserve. Honestly, I don't think I could do it justice in a Facebook post either. It feels like you’d need to write a whole book for that, and that's definitely not my thing.


Wishing that the divine always blesses him with vibrant health, allowing him to continue bringing us joy for all time.

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