Chennai, Oct 8 – Oscar‑winning sound designer Resul Pookutty announced on Instagram that he had planned to meet the late actor Nana Patekar on Thursday morning, before the news of Patekar’s death reached him. Pookutty expressed shock and grief, describing the loss as colossal and saying that he would miss the opportunity to work with the veteran.
In a lengthy post, Pookutty recalled a story of dedication from a senior in a diploma film, writing: “The most heart touching dedication I saw in films and literature-is one of my seniors in his diploma film (had put up a caption) that read: "Sorry father I was a bit late!" When I asked him about the story behind that caption, he said: "My father wanted to see me and I got late in the bus. As I was reaching home, he passed away. I wished I was a bit early, my whole life I would live with this thought, whether he saw me as he was closing his eyes!"”
He added that hearing the story left him numb and that the news of Patekar’s passing still shivers through him. Pookutty wrote: “I sat numb, hearing that story from my friend. That numbness shivers through me in the morning as I sink in with the news of Nana’s passing. "Sorry Nana, I’m a bit late!" I was supposed to speak with you this morning. Now that Krantiveer voice will only haunt me till my time comes. This loss is colossal for me. I will miss making that film with you… I will miss that hug, with full of love, kindness and brotherly… May you Rest In Eternal Peace. Love you & hugs… See you on the other side. #ripnanapatekar #loveandloss #indiancinema.”
Tamil actor Vishal also expressed condolences on X, writing: “Just heard that one of the best of the best actors of Indian cinema #nanapatekar passed away this morning. We have definitely lost a gem of our industry. I have watched Nana Patekar’s movie #Parindha many times to see his portrayal. A man who brought every character alive is like a Bible for every aspiring actor to learn the nuances of acting. May your soul rest in peace sir. My deepest condolences. Still can’t believe this news. Sometimes God has his own design. RIP.”
