Stories
Discover Nana Patekar's Journey From Advertising Artist to Bollywood Legend
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News18•08-10-2026, 10:05
Discover Nana Patekar's Journey From Advertising Artist to Bollywood Legend
- •Before achieving fame in Hindi cinema, Nana Patekar trained in art at Mumbai's Sir J.J. School of Art and worked as a commercial artist at an advertising agency.
- •Patekar initially pursued theatre during his school and college years, spending decades on stage before transitioning into films.
- •Late actress Smita Patil encouraged Patekar to enter cinema, leading to his feature film debut in Muzaffar Ali's 1978 movie Gaman.
- •During the 1999 Kargil War, Patekar spent about 60 days with an Indian Army Quick Reaction Team after receiving permission from then Defence Minister George Fernandes.
- •Patekar won three National Film Awards throughout his career and received the prestigious Padma Shri in 2013.
Key Questions Answered
Before becoming a well-known actor, Nana Patekar studied art at the Sir J.J. School of Art in Mumbai, worked as a commercial artist, and was associated with an advertising agency.
Nana Patekar made his directorial debut with the 1991 film Prahaar: The Final Attack, which was centered on the Indian Army.
Nana Patekar won the National Film Award three times in his career. He received his first win as Best Supporting Actor for Parinda, followed by Best Actor for Krantiveer and Best Supporting Actor for Agni Sakshi.
