Pune: Veteran actor Nana Patekar (75) was cremated with full state honours on Thursday night on a quiet patch of land beside his farmhouse, Nanachi Wadi, in Donje near Khadakwasla, in accordance with his wishes. The choice of location reflected his bond with nature and his preference for a simple, private life away from the spotlight.Preparations for the cremation began early, as workers built the funeral pyre with wood from Patekar’s own farm, honouring a wish he had expressed years earlier. By evening, the once-quiet expanse had become the setting for one of Maharashtra’s most poignant farewells. His son, Malhar, performed the final rites and lit the pyre.Authorities restricted access to the farmhouse from around 2pm, permitting entry only to pedestrians and vehicles carrying dignitaries. As the day progressed, large crowds gathered outside the property, lining the barricaded roads for a final glimpse of the actor who remained closely connected to his roots throughout his life.Separate arrangements were made for VIPs and members of the public, while giant screens were installed to allow mourners outside the venue to witness the final rites. State cabinet minister Chandrakant Patil arrived early and remained at the site throughout the evening. Among the first from the film fraternity to pay their respects was actor Pravin Tarde, a close associate of Patekar, followed by composer Rahul Ranade, NCP leader Rupali Chakankar and several other prominent personalities.As night fell, the atmosphere grew increasingly emotional. Hundreds who had assembled since the afternoon waited patiently as officials repeatedly appealed for calm. Shortly after 10pm, Patekar’s mortal remains arrived amid the sounds of cymbals, drums and trumpets. Chants from grieving admirers echoed through the venue before a solemn silence descended as the final rituals began.Several politicians attended the cremation, including former state cabinet minister and MLA Dhananjay Munde, deputy chief ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, Maharashtra minister for industries, investment and services Uday Samant, Union minister of state for social justice and empowerment Ramdas Athawale, and Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration commissioner Tukaram Mundhe.Late into the night, the lights of Nanachi Wadi flickered against the Khadakwasla hillside as thousands stood in silent remembrance, bringing an end to a day-long vigil for one of Marathi and Indian cinema’s most respected and uncompromising voices.
