Photo via India Today

Virat Kohli remembers Nana Patekar; fans revisit actor's love for cricketer

Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli paid tribute to the late actor Nana Patekar following his passing on October 8, 2026. Patekar, known for his candid admiration of Kohli, had once shared in a viral interview that his favorite cricketer was the Indian batsman, even joking that he lost his appetite when Kohli struggled early in an innings.

Kohli’s heartfelt post on X called Patekar a 'true legend of Indian cinema,' underscoring the actor’s enduring impact on fans across generations. The news reignited memories of Patekar’s unabashed fandom, with cricket fans revisiting the clip where he expressed his deep affection for Kohli’s talent and dedication.

Beyond Kohli, other cricketing legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Shikhar Dhawan, and Ajinkya Rahane also honored Patekar’s legacy. Tendulkar highlighted the actor’s authenticity both on-screen and in life, while Dhawan and Rahane praised his ability to inspire through his work.

Patekar’s death, confirmed at Manipal Hospital in Goa after he was found unresponsive due to severe chest pain, left a void in Indian entertainment, with tributes pouring in from across the sports and film industries.

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Virat Kohli mourns Nana Patekar’s demise, calls him a ‘True Legend’ of Indian Cinema