Nana Patekar cremated with state honours as police open unnatural death probe

Veteran actor Nana Patekar was cremated with full state honours at his Donje farmhouse in Pune on Thursday night, October 8, after his death at the age of 75. Panaji Police have logged an unnatural death case under Section 194 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) and appointed PSI Nitin Naik to lead the investigation. Police records state that the 76‑year‑old was brought dead to the casualty ward of Manipal Hospital in Bambolim, having been taken from his Ocean Park residence in Dona Paula, Goa. The filing of an unnatural death case is a routine step to examine circumstances; it does not by itself imply any foul play, and investigators have said further details will emerge as the enquiry proceeds. After the rites, Nana’s son Malhar Patekar addressed reporters, saying his father’s work and ideals will continue to inspire, and that “a person like Nana Saheb never truly leaves us; his achievements have made him immortal.” He added that the elder Patekar always urged unity and a righteous path worldwide, and that the family will carry forward that vision. The remarks also recalled the actor’s long‑standing social work through the Naam Foundation, which assists drought‑stricken farmers and rural communities in Maharashtra. Veteran actress Hema Malini later expressed shock that she missed his last phone call a week before his death. ## Context In India, “full state honours” involve official police presence, a gun‑carriage and a ceremonial guard, reflecting the government’s recognition of a citizen’s contribution. The BNSS provision for unnatural deaths allows police to investigate any death that is not clearly natural, ensuring transparency in high‑profile cases.