Nana Patekar Birthday: How passion for acting shaped his remarkable life story

Nana Patekar's family has lived a very simple and private life. His real name is Vishwanath Patekar, and he was born into a Marathi family in Murud-Janjira, Raigad district, Maharashtra. His father had a deep passion for theatre and was the first person to sow the seeds of acting within Nana Patekar. His father's love for theatre led Nana to watch plays and be involved with the stage from childhood. Unfortunately, Nana Patekar lost his father to a heart attack at a young age, which deeply affected his life.

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Early life

Nana Patekar was born in Mumbai on January 1, 1951, into a middle-class Marathi family. Before entering films, he was a sketch artist. In his early days, he even painted zebra crossings on the road. Nana Patekar holds a postgraduate degree in applied art. He began working at the age of 13. He also painted film posters, earning 35 rupees per month at the time.

Personal Life

Nana Patekar was married to Neelkanthi Patekar. However, their marriage was not a happy one for long. He also faced great personal tragedy—he lost his first son at a young age, which is considered the most painful period of his life. Following this personal tragedy, Nana Patekar became even more introverted and devoted himself to work and social service.

Step into the film world

Actor Nana Patekar began his film career with the 1978 film "Gaman." However, this film failed to win him a place in the hearts of audiences. Nana struggled in the film industry for approximately eight years. After this film, he starred in mid-rate films like "Bhalu" and "Sheela." In 1984, Nana starred opposite Raj Babbar in the film "Aaj Ki Awaaz." This film gave Nana Patekar a new identity in the film world.

Stepped into film direction in 1991

After winning over audiences with his powerful acting in the film industry, Nana Patekar began directing films in 1991. Interestingly, Nana Patekar introduced actress Madhuri Dixit to audiences by casting her in a less glamorous role.

Won Filmfare Award four times and National Award three times

Actor Nana Patekar has been honored with four Filmfare Awards for his outstanding performances in films. He has also received three National Awards for his acting.

The first actor to demand Rs 1 crore

Nana Patekar is the first Bollywood actor who demanded Rs 1 crore from the directors, and the filmmakers also agreed to fulfill his demand.

Had an affair with Manisha Koirala

Actor Nana Patekar and actress Manisha Koirala's affair was rumored to be in the news for quite some time. However, sources indicate that Nana's short temper caused a rift in their relationship.

Angry Young Man and Real Army Man

Nana Patekar is known as Bollywood's angry young man and a real army man. For your information, the actor directed the film "Prahaar." For that film, he also trained as an army officer for three years.

 Nana Patekar lives in a 1 BHK  flat.

The actor is a prominent Bollywood star, but he still lives in his 1 BHK flat in Mumbai.

as a social worker

Nana Patekar is also a prominent social worker. He donates 90% of his earnings to charity.

Controversy

For your information, 2018 was a very bad year for Nana Patekar. Actress Tanushree Dutta accused him of sexual harassment during the "Me Too" movement. This led to trolling on social media. This movement led to Nana Patekar having to leave his film.

Upcoming Project

Nana Patekar was seen in the film Housefull 5 in 2025. Before that, 'Vanvas' was released in December 2024. Soon, a film with actors Vishal Bhardwaj and Shahid Kapoor is included, which may release in 2026. 'Vanvas' was released in December 2024. He is also going to debut in a web series, 'Lal Batti', which has been announced. 

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FAQs

What is the real name of Nana Patekar?

Answer: Nana Patekar's real name is Vishwanath Patekar.

Where was Nana Patekar born?

Answer: He was born in a Marathi family in Murud-Janjira, Raigad district, Maharashtra.

What kind of person was Nana Patekar's father?

Answer: His father had a deep passion for plays and theatre. It was he who inspired Nana Patekar's interest in acting.

Were Nana Patekar's parents supportive of his acting career?

Answer: Yes, especially his father encouraged him to watch plays and join the stage, which led to his inclination towards acting.

Who is Nana Patekar's wife?

Answer: Nana Patekar was married to Neelkanthi Patekar.