Nana Patekar Remembered by Mehul Kumar for His Krantiveer Legacy

Filmmaker Mehul Kumar recalls his close bond with Nana Patekar, their three films together and the unrealised Mission Tirangaa project following the actor’s death.

Veteran director Mehul Kumar has paid an emotional tribute to Nana Patekar, honoring his performances, humility, and strong friendship. Patekar, who passed away on October 8, 2026, at 75, acted with Kumar in three films: Tirangaa, Krantiveer, and Kohram. His Nana Patekar film legacy continues to draw attention from fans of Indian cinema.

According to Rediff, Kumar spoke to senior contributor Roshmila Bhattacharya about his fond memories of the actor. He added that their bond went beyond work and that they stayed in touch through birthday, festival and New Year greetings, even after Patekar moved away from Mumbai. Furthermore, Kumar said his wife tied a rakhi to Patekar every year. Mehul Kumar’s tribute to Nana Patekar highlights the personal bond they maintained over the years.

Mehul Kumar Recalls the Success of Tirangaa

Tirangaa was the first film in which Kumar directed Patekar alongside veteran actor Raaj Kumar. According to the director, some members of the film industry wondered whether the two would be able to work together despite their contrasting personalities.

The film was completed within six months and went on to celebrate a golden jubilee. Patekar worked with Kumar on the next two films, Krantiveer and Kohram, forming a professional partnership that spanned three films over six years.

Krantiveer Remains a Memorable Performance

According to Kumar, the communal violence that erupted after the demolition of the Babri Masjid motivated him to make Krantiveer. He wanted to tell the story through the eyes of an ordinary man whose words captured the spirit of the time.

Despite predictions that a film featuring Patekar as the sole lead would fail at the box office, Kumar cast him as Pratap Narayan Tilak. The role became one of Patekar’s most acclaimed performances. Kumar recalled asking the actor to wear his old clothes and sandals to make the character more authentic. Patekar agreed without objection.

Mission Tirangaa Will Remain Unmade

Kumar also revealed that he had discussed his new project, Mission Tirangaa, with Patekar following the release of Vanvaas in December 2024. According to Kumar, Patekar liked the story and agreed to act in it. Kumar had also registered the title.

Following Patekar’s death, Kumar believes the project will never be made. He described the late actor as a down-to-earth person whose character remained unchanged despite his success.

Business Honor observes that Patekar’s performances in Krantiveer and Tirangaa remain an enduring part of Indian cinema, while Kumar’s memories highlight the personal relationships behind the actor’s celebrated career.

FAQs

Who was Mehul Kumar to Nana Patekar?

Mehul Kumar was a filmmaker who worked with Nana Patekar on Tirangaa, Krantiveer and Kohram. The two also shared a close personal bond.

Which films did Nana Patekar and Mehul Kumar make together?

They worked together on Tirangaa, Krantiveer and Kohram.

Why is Nana Patekar remembered for Krantiveer?

Patekar’s portrayal of Pratap Narayan Tilak and his powerful dialogue delivery made the film one of his most memorable performances.

What was Mission Tirangaa?

It was a planned film that Mehul Kumar had developed with Nana Patekar in mind. Kumar said Patekar had liked the story, but the project would not be made following his death.

How did Mehul Kumar describe Nana Patekar’s personality?

Kumar described him as a simple, grounded and family-oriented person whose success did not change his personality.