Did You Know Nana Patekar Was A Painter Before Becoming A Bollywood Actor?

Nana Patekar was one of Indian cinema's most respected actors, known for his powerful performances in films such as Parinda, Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Ab Tak Chhappan and Welcome. However, before becoming a celebrated Bollywood star, he had a very different life. Nana Patekar was trained in art and worked as a painter during his younger years. His early struggle played an important role in shaping the actor he later became.

Did You Know Nana Patekar Was A Painter Before Becoming A Bollywood Actor?

Nana Patekar, whose real name was Vishwanath Patekar, came from Murud-Janjira in Maharashtra. His family faced serious financial difficulties when he was young. Around the age of 13, he started working while still studying in school.

He painted film posters in Mumbai and reportedly earned around Rs 35 a month. He also walked several kilometres every day to reach his workplace. According to reports, the job included one meal a day, which was important during his difficult childhood. 

Nana Patekar Studied Applied Art Before Entering Films

Nana Patekar's interest in art continued as he grew older. He studied at the Sir J.J. Institute of Applied Art in Mumbai and later worked as a commercial artist. His background in painting and visual art gave him a creative foundation before he fully moved towards acting. 

Interestingly, acting was not originally his main career plan. Patekar had been involved in theatre from his school days and developed his acting skills on stage.

In an earlier interview, he said, "I never wanted to do films. I was happy doing theatre, but it was on the insistence of my friend Smita Patil that I joined the industry." 

ALSO READ: When Nana Patekar Said He Doesn't Like Violent Massy Films: 'Mujhe Hassi Aati Hai...' | Exclusive

From Theatre To Bollywood Stardom

Nana Patekar eventually made his film debut with Gaman in 1978. He initially appeared in smaller roles before gaining wider recognition. His performance in Parinda brought him major critical acclaim and a National Film Award.

He later delivered memorable performances in Krantiveer, Agni Sakshi, Khamoshi: The Musical, Ab Tak Chhappan, Apaharan, Natsamrat and Welcome. He also explored writing and direction during his career.

His journey from painting film posters as a teenager to becoming an award-winning actor remains one of the more remarkable stories in Indian cinema. 

FAQs

Q1. Was Nana Patekar a painter before becoming an actor?

Yes. Nana Patekar painted film posters as a teenager and later studied applied art.

Q2. How much did Nana Patekar earn by painting film posters?

Reports state that he earned around Rs 35 a month while painting film posters as a teenager. 

Q3. Where did Nana Patekar study art?

He studied at the Sir J.J. Institute of Applied Art in Mumbai. 

Q4. What was Nana Patekar's first film?

Nana Patekar made his film debut with Gaman in 1978.

Q5. Did Nana Patekar work in theatre?

Yes. He was involved in theatre from his school days before building his film career.