Nana Patekar's death at the age of 75 has renewed attention on an unusual chapter of his life: his reported association with India's Territorial Army and service during the Kargil War.
Known for powerful performances in Indian cinema, Patekar had also spoken about his commitment to national service. He said he temporarily stepped away from acting during the conflict and joined the Light Infantry Regiment.
Patekar's account of joining the war effort
In an interview with The Lallantop, Patekar recalled that he had wanted to go to the war zone. He said he had completed a commando course, was a skilled shooter, had represented India at the national level and had received a medal.
According to his account, he contacted officials during the war and expressed his wish to participate. He was initially told that, as a civilian, he could not go. Patekar said Defence Minister Fernandes knew him and later asked when he wanted to leave. His answer, he recalled, was that he wanted to go immediately.
Patekar said he subsequently went to Kargil and became part of a Quick Reaction Team. He described the experience as a way to contribute to the country, adding that soldiers were the nation's greatest strength.
The weight loss he described
Patekar said he weighed 76 kilos when he went to the conflict zone and 56 kilos when he returned. He described the change as a loss of 20 kilos over 2 months, or about 60 days.
Despite the physical toll, he said he felt happy to have done something for the country. His account presented the Kargil experience as a period when he placed national service ahead of his acting career.
Patekar also spoke about his relationship with Ajit Doval. He described Doval as being like a brother and said calling him merely a friend would not adequately reflect their bond.
Conclusion
Patekar's Kargil story adds a military-service chapter to the public memory of an actor remembered for both his screen roles and his stated commitment to the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How old was Nana Patekar when he died?
He died at the age of 75.
Q. What military organisation was Patekar associated with?
He was associated with India's Territorial Army.
Q. Which conflict did Patekar say he joined?
He said he went to Kargil during the Kargil War.
Q. What role did he say he performed in Kargil?
He said he became part of a Quick Reaction Team.
Q. How much weight did Patekar say he lost?
He said his weight fell from 76 kilos to 56 kilos, a reduction of 20 kilos.
Q. How long did he say the weight change took?
He described the period as 2 months, or about 60 days.
