Shah Rukh Khan Pays Tribute to Nana Patekar, Recalls Their First Meeting, Carrom Games

Superstar Shah Rukh Khan has paid emotional tributes to veteran actor Nana Patekar after his death in Goa on October 8. Remembering the actor, Shah Rukh posted a throwback picture on Instagram and recalled their first meeting, memorable conversations and games of carrom. He described Nana as a mentor, teacher, critic and friend, whose words and personality would always stay with him.

Recalling their first meeting, Shah Rukh said he was nervous and fiddled with his hair out of awe. Nana, however, immediately corrected him and reminded him that he was an actor and not merely trying to look like a hero.

Shah Rukh remembers Nana as a person who never flattered anyone or said anything just to please them. Instead, the veteran actor would tell people what they needed to hear.

Describing Nana's personality, Shah Rukh wrote that he was "straightforward" and "rough" but had a beautiful smile and a unique way of expressing affection. According to Shah Rukh, Nana would often shout at him before eventually transforming it into an affectionate exchange.

The actor also reflected on the time he spent away from the film sets. Shah Rukh said he wished they had more time for conversations, arguments, cups of tea and another game of carrom.

Calling Nana a mentor, teacher, critic and friend, Shah Rukh said his intensity, laughter, madness and love would always with him. He recalled one of Nana's lessons, "Hero banne ke chakar mein actor mat khona."

Shah Rukh said Nana's passing had left a void not only in cinema but also in the hearts of people across India and the world. He added that he would carry Nana's words in his heart and miss him dearly.

Concluding his tribute, Shah Rukh prayed for Nana's soul to rest in peace and remembered him as a "masterful actor" and an "unbeatable carrom champion".

Shah Rukh and Nana Patekar have appeared in films together including Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman (1992) and Shakti: The Power (2002). Their professional association, along with Shah Rukh's personal memories, added an emotional dimension to the superstar's farewell to the veteran actor.