Dubai Producer Arjun Iyer Remembers Nana Patekar After Actor’s Sudden Death

Dubai-based producer Arjun Iyer is struggling to come to terms with the sudden death of veteran Indian actor Nana Patekar, remembering him as a disciplined, health-conscious and deeply passionate personality.

Patekar, 75, died in Goa on October 8, 2026, following a cardiac arrest.

The news of the veteran actor’s death sent shockwaves across the Indian film industry, with colleagues and friends remembering his remarkable career and powerful performances.

Arjun Iyer Remembers Working With Patekar On ‘Welcome Back’

Arjun Iyer, who later moved from film production into education, worked with Nana Patekar during the shooting of Welcome Back.

The film was extensively shot in the UAE, where Iyer was based at the time.

His professional association with Patekar gradually developed into a friendship, giving Iyer an opportunity to see a more personal side of the veteran actor away from the cameras.

Patekar’s Sudden Death Came As A Shock

Iyer was particularly surprised by the news because he remembered Patekar as someone who paid considerable attention to his health and fitness.

According to Iyer, the actor was disciplined about staying fit and maintained a serious approach towards his personal well-being.

His sudden passing therefore came as an especially difficult shock to those who knew him closely.

Nana Patekar Was More Than Just An Actor

Iyer also recalled Patekar’s deep interest in cinema.

Their conversations were not limited to their work on films, as the actor often discussed movies, performances and filmmaking.

Patekar was a keen follower of Indian cinema and admired international performers as well.

Iyer remembered his appreciation for actor Jack Nicholson and his admiration for the work of legendary Indian filmmaker Guru Dutt.

Their conversations frequently explored different aspects of acting and filmmaking.

Iyer described Patekar as someone who remained a serious student of cinema and was always interested in understanding the craft more deeply.

A Strict Professional With A Friendly Side

Although Patekar was widely known for his intense screen presence and fiery performances, Iyer remembered a more relaxed and friendly side of the actor.

Their friendship included spending long hours together and discussing various subjects related to the film industry.

Iyer recalled visiting Patekar’s home, where their conversations about cinema, acting and the industry could continue late into the night.

Patekar would also share his views about acting and filmmaking, giving Iyer a glimpse into the thoughts of an actor who remained deeply committed to his craft.

‘Welcome Back’ Remains A Memorable UAE Connection

Nana Patekar’s association with the UAE remains an important part of the memories surrounding Welcome Back.

The actor was among the stars involved in the film, which featured John Abraham, Anil Kapoor and Dimple Kapadia.

The action-comedy was extensively filmed in the UAE, bringing several members of the Indian film industry to the country during its production.

Arjun Iyer Shares Fond Memories Of The Veteran Actor

For Arjun Iyer, Nana Patekar will be remembered not only for his memorable performances but also for his discipline, curiosity and passion for cinema.

Iyer’s memories highlight a side of Patekar that audiences rarely saw on screen — a serious cinema enthusiast who enjoyed discussing the craft and remained committed to learning about filmmaking and acting.

With the veteran actor’s death, tributes have been pouring in from across the Indian film industry as colleagues, friends and admirers mourn the loss of one of Indian cinema’s most distinctive performers.

Patekar’s career spanned more than four decades, during which he received three National Film Awards for his work in Marathi and Hindi cinema.

His powerful acting style and memorable characters established him as one of the most respected performers in Indian cinema.

For those who worked closely with him, however, his legacy extends beyond his films.

Arjun Iyer remembers a disciplined professional, a passionate student of cinema and a friend with whom conversations about films could continue until the early hours.

Nana Patekar’s Family Prepares For Last Rites

Patekar is survived by his wife Sonia, son Jay and daughter Shoma.

His body has reportedly been kept at Mumbai’s Cooper Hospital as his family makes arrangements to take him back to Goa for the last rites.