Nana Patekar, renowned for his impactful roles in Indian cinema, recently opened up about some of the most challenging moments in his career, revealing the profound risks and sacrifices he endured for his art. In a candid interview with The Lallantop, Patekar shared harrowing experiences from the sets of iconic films like “Parinda” and “Salaam Bombay,” shedding light on the real dangers faced by actors in pursuit of realism. Also Read- Nana Patekar Finally Breaks Silence on Tanushree Dutta’s Sexual Harassment Allegations During the Metoo Movement
One of the most haunting incidents he recounted was during the filming of the climax scene in “Parinda,” a crime drama directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra. The scene involved a blazing fire, with Patekar himself caught in the flames. Recalling the ordeal, he revealed, “It was real fire. I was burning. After that shoot, I couldn’t do anything for a year. All my skin had peeled off… there was none left. There was no beard, moustache, eyebrow, or eyelids left.” The severity of the burns forced him into a 60-day hospitalization and six months of complete bed rest, marking a devastating period in his life where he was unable to work.
Reflecting on the accident, Patekar clarified that it was unintentional, despite precautions taken on set. The fire’s intensity escalated unexpectedly, fueled by an increase in flammable material between takes. “In the first take, we put three buckets, in the second we put 14 buckets, so the fire was intense. However, it was an accident, it wasn’t that Vinod wanted me to burn. It just happened,” he explained. The incident not only affected his physical health but also left a lasting impact on his career trajectory.
Additionally, Patekar recalled another perilous incident during the shooting of “Salaam Bombay,” where he was accidentally stabbed during a scene. The force of the stab pierced through the protective gear around his waist, resulting in a genuine injury. Despite the seriousness of the situation, there was initial confusion on set about whether he was acting or genuinely hurt. “They thought, ‘Kya acting ki hai’. These sorts of accidents keep happening,” he remarked, highlighting the unpredictable nature of filming. Also Read- Malaika Arora Pens Mysterious Message After Missing Arjun Kapoor’s Birthday Celebration: Says “I Like People I Can Trust With My Eyes Closed”; Read More to Know!
Despite these traumatic experiences, Nana Patekar’s passion for acting remains undiminished. Known for his versatility and powerful performances, he continues to contribute significantly to Indian cinema. His recent projects include “The Vaccine War,” where he delivered yet another compelling portrayal, and he is currently gearing up for his upcoming film “Journey,” directed by Anil Sharma. The film promises to be a poignant family drama centered around a father-son pilgrimage to Varanasi, showcasing Patekar’s enduring dedication to his craft.
Throughout his illustrious career spanning decades, Nana Patekar has garnered acclaim not only for his acting prowess but also for his willingness to push boundaries and take risks for authenticity. His resilience in overcoming adversity both on and off-screen underscores his legendary status in Bollywood, where he continues to be revered as a powerhouse performer with an unwavering commitment to his artistry.
