On his birthday, let’s celebrate not just the films but also the extraordinary life of Nana Patekar. Did you know this actor Was Part of the Army and once traded the glamour of Bollywood for the grit of the battlefield during the 1999 Kargil War?
Can patriotism take you beyond your comfort zone? For Nana Patekar, it certainly did. Known for his powerful roles in films like Prahaar and Tirangaa, Nana decided to live his reel-life patriotism for real. With years of commando training and expertise as a national-level shooter, he joined the Indian Army’s Quick Reaction Team during the Kargil War.
Did he face the same challenges as soldiers? Nana Patekar, inspired by the bravery of soldiers, reached out to the Defense Minister, George Fernandes, and insisted on being part of the war effort. Despite being a civilian, his persistence paid off, and he spent two months on the frontlines in areas like Drass, Baramulla, and Kupwara. Nana’s determination to serve led him to the war zone, where he spent 60 days in critical areas like Drass, Kupwara, and Baramulla. As a member of the Quick Reaction Team, he performed duties under harsh conditions, losing 20 kilograms during his time there.
He paused his acting career to serve the country, proving that patriotism isn’t confined to the screen. This experience added authenticity to his later roles, particularly as an Army officer in Prahaar.
Born into a humble Marathi family, Nana Patekar rose from earning Rs. 750 in his early days to amassing an Rs. 80 crore net worth today. Yet, his success didn’t overshadow his sense of duty. On his birthday, we remember not just his contributions to cinema but also his remarkable service to the nation.
