Akshay Kumar has paid tribute to veteran actor Nana Patekar following his sudden death at the age of 75. The actor remembered their collaborations in ‘Welcome’ and ‘Housefull 5’ while reflecting on his co-star’s distinctive screen presence.Sharing a still from ‘Welcome’ on X, Akshay Kumar recalled the qualities that made Nana Patekar a memorable performer. He highlighted his voice, intensity and honesty, which became defining elements of his acting style.See More: National Award winnig actor Nana Patekar passes away at 75

Akshay Kumar remembers ‘Welcome’ co-star

Akshay Kumar and Nana Patekar first worked together in the 2007 comedy ‘Welcome’. Nana Patekar played the much-loved character Don Uday Shetty, while Akshay Kumar starred as Rajiv Saini.Looking back at their association, Akshay Kumar described Nana Patekar as an actor who could command attention without relying on excessive performance.“Really saddened by the news of Nana ji’s passing. He was one of those rare actors who never needed to do too much to make you sit up and watch. That voice, that intensity, that honesty in every performance… he was completely his own.”The film became one of the notable comedy collaborations in both actors’ careers.

Akshay Kumar recalls ‘Housefull 5’ collaboration

Years after ‘Welcome’, Akshay Kumar and Nana Patekar reunited for ‘Housefull 5’. The veteran actor was once again part of a comedy ensemble featuring several established names.Akshay Kumar said he felt fortunate to have shared the screen with Nana Patekar on both occasions. He also remembered the experiences they accumulated while working together.“I feel fortunate that we got to work together in Welcome, and then again more recently in Housefull 5. There are so many memories from those sets that I’ll always hold close.Nana ji was truly one of a kind. It’s hard to believe you’re gone. Thank you for all the memories. You will be missed more than words can say.”

Nana Patekar passes away at 75

Nana Patekar was found unconscious at his residence in Dona Paula, Goa. He was subsequently taken to Manipal Hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead. His death has led to an outpouring of condolences from actors, filmmakers and other members of the entertainment industry. Prakash Raj, RGV, Prabhudeva, Jr NTR and many others paid tributes for the actor.Nana Patekar established himself as one of the prominent performers in Hindi and Marathi cinema. His filmography included several acclaimed projects across different genres. The actor worked in films such as ‘Gaman’, ‘Parinda’, ‘Angaar’, ‘Tirangaa’, ‘Krantiveer’, ‘Agni Sakshi’, ‘Khamoshi: The Musical’, ‘Yeshwant’, ‘Ab Tak Chhappan’, ‘Apaharan’ and ‘Raajneeti’.See More: Nana Patekar passes away: PM Modi hails veteran star’s contribution to Hindi and Marathi cinema

Nana Patekar’s final screen appearances

Nana Patekar was most recently seen in ‘Subedaar’. He appeared in a special role as Lance Naik Nana Waghmare in the film.Directed by Suresh Triveni, ‘Subedaar’ stars Anil Kapoor in the lead role. The cast also includes Radhika Madan, Khushbu Sundar, Saurabh Shukla, Aditya Rawal, Mona Singh and Faisal Malik.