Veteran actor Nana Patekar's death at the age of 75 has brought renewed attention to several memorable moments from his life and career, including a throwback video in which he spoke candidly about his passion for cricket and his admiration for Virat Kohli. The video, which has resurfaced on social media following the actor's death, shows a lighter and more personal side of the acclaimed performer. In the clip, Patekar revealed that Kohli's performances affected him so deeply that an early dismissal could even spoil his appetite. “If he gets out early, I don't feel like eating,” Patekar said while describing his affection for the former India captain. The remark quickly became a talking point among cricket fans because of the unusual intensity with which the actor followed Kohli's performances.
Patekar had previously spoken about Kohli during an interview in which he described the cricketer as one of his favourite players. His comments reflected how closely he followed Indian cricket despite his demanding career in films and theatre. Speaking about the emotional investment involved in watching Kohli bat, Patekar explained that an early dismissal could affect his mood for the rest of the day.
The candid admission resonated with cricket supporters, many of whom could relate to the feeling of disappointment when a favourite batter walks back to the pavilion cheaply. The clip subsequently resurfaced on social media whenever Kohli endured a difficult innings, with users often recalling Patekar's humorous admission about losing his appetite after an early dismissal. His comments also underlined the actor's ability to discuss his interests in an unfiltered and conversational manner, away from the serious characters that defined much of his screen career.
Patekar's interest in cricket extended beyond individual players. In his conversations about the sport, he drew parallels between cricket and cinema, two professions that expose performers and players to intense public scrutiny. He noted that cricketers could spend several days competing in a Test match, while actors and filmmakers could invest months or even years in making a film before audiences eventually passed judgment on the finished product.
Patekar's observations reflected his understanding of pressure, performance and public expectations. That perspective perhaps helped explain his admiration for players such as Kohli, whose career has involved enormous expectations and repeated scrutiny. The resurfaced video has therefore attracted attention not only because of Patekar's humorous remark but also because it provides fans with a glimpse into the actor's personality away from his celebrated film roles.
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Patekar's death has given the old video a more poignant context. The actor was reportedly found unconscious at his residence in Dona Paula, Goa, on Thursday and was subsequently taken to Manipal Hospital. Doctors attempted to revive him for around 45 minutes, but their efforts were unsuccessful. He was declared dead at approximately 5:10 am, according to reports citing hospital authorities.
Patekar's death at 75 has prompted an immediate wave of tributes from colleagues, fans and admirers across the film industry. The circumstances surrounding his death are also being examined, with reports indicating that a medico-legal procedure and post-mortem examination would be conducted. News of his passing came as a shock to an industry that had known Patekar for decades as one of the country's most distinctive and versatile performers.
Born on December 1, 1951, Patekar built a career that stretched across Hindi and Marathi cinema, theatre and other creative work. He made his film debut with Gaman in 1978 and gradually established himself as an actor capable of handling a wide range of roles. His performances in films such as Parinda, Prahaar: The Final Act, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Khamoshi: The Musical and Welcome demonstrated his versatility. He was equally effective in intense dramatic roles, morally complex characters and comedy.
Patekar won three National Film Awards during his career and was honoured with the Padma Shri for his contribution to Indian cinema. His distinctive voice, forceful dialogue delivery and unconventional screen presence made him one of the most recognisable actors of his generation. His work also extended beyond acting, with Patekar directing films and remaining associated with theatre throughout his career.
As tributes continue to emerge, the resurfaced Virat Kohli video is offering audiences a different way to remember Patekar. Beyond the intense characters, hard-hitting performances and celebrated film career, the clip captures an actor speaking like an ordinary passionate cricket fan. His admission that Kohli's early dismissal could make him lose his appetite has once again struck a chord with social media users, particularly those who have followed the batter's career through its many highs and lows.
What was once a humorous observation has now taken on an emotional dimension following Patekar's death. For many fans, the video serves as a reminder that behind the celebrated actor was also a sports enthusiast capable of becoming deeply invested in the fortunes of the players he admired. As Indian cinema remembers one of its most memorable performers, Patekar's cricket-related anecdotes are adding a more personal and relatable dimension to the tributes being shared in his memory.
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