Basit Ali recalls decades of friendship with Nana Patekar

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali shared memories of Nana Patekar following the actor's death. He said their friendship began in 1994 and continued for decades.

In his account, Basit said they usually spoke by phone once or twice a month. He particularly remembered the support Patekar offered his family during difficult periods.

When Basit's mother was in hospital, the actor called every week, spoke with her and listened to her stories, the cricketer recalled. After her death, Patekar urged his friend to look after himself. He later checked on Basit's own recovery after heart treatment.

Basit also remembered conversations about films. He said Patekar's manner in private retained the directness audiences recognized on screen. Their exchanges included jokes and reflected warmth and respect for an older friend.

The former cricketer said he was struggling to accept the news of Patekar's death. He also spoke of the actor's many admirers in Pakistan. Umar Akmal paid tribute on social media as well.

Patekar died on October 8 at 75. His career in Hindi and Marathi cinema spanned nearly five decades, with films including Gaman, Parinda, Krantiveer and Ab Tak Chhappan. His performance in Parinda earned him the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actor. He received the Padma Shri in 2013. Outside cinema, he supported initiatives assisting farmers and families affected by drought in Maharashtra.