08 Oct
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Nana Patekar’s passing has left the film industry mourning one of its most distinctive actors. Over a career spanning decades, Nana moved effortlessly between intense dramatic roles and comedy, with his performances in films such as Parinda, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, and Welcome.

As tributes pour in, we look back at a 2017 Filmfare interview with filmmaker Anees Bazmee, who shared memories of working with Nana, particularly on Welcome. Bazmee had worked with the actor on several films and spoke about the rapport they developed from their very first meeting.


Recalling the first time he went to narrate Welcome to the actor, Bazmee said, “My tuning with Nana Patekar has been good since my first film, when I went to read the script of Welcome to him. Usually, actors say they have very little time, read quickly and finish it off. Nana Patekar said not to read in a hurry. Explain it in 3 hours. He said, ‘main kachchi mitti ka ghada hun, tum jaise chahe mujhe dhal lena.’”

He continued, “When he is happy he will hug me like a kid. He just wants good work. He is a greedy actor. He has a clean heart. He is very straightforward. That is why it is fun to work with him. After Welcome released, he said to me, Anees, thanks for this film. Because my kids would always get scared of me. They never came near me. But Welcome changed my image in their minds. Now they come and sit in my lap’. That was a very nice compliment for me.”


Years later, Bazmee’s recollection offers a glimpse into the actor behind some of his most memorable performances.

Also Read: Remembering Nana Patekar’s Best Films: Parinda, Krantiveer, Welcome and More