Bollywood has often drawn inspiration from real-life war stories, bringing them alive on screen through dramatic portrayals. But few know that one of its own—an acclaimed actor and three-time National Award winner—actually served on the frontlines during a real war.
Veteran actor Nana Patekar, known for his intense roles in films like Tirangaa, wore the army uniform not just for a role but for real, during the 1999 Kargil War.
A Bollywood Star at the Frontlines
During a recent appearance on Kaun Banega Crorepati 16, hosted by Amitabh Bachchan, Nana Patekar shared a deeply personal and rare story: his service alongside Indian Army soldiers during the Kargil conflict.
When the war broke out, Patekar was determined to contribute in more than just symbolic ways. He initially reached out to senior army officers requesting permission to serve at the border. However, his request was denied on procedural grounds and he was informed that only the Defence Minister could grant such a clearance.
“I knew our Defence Minister, George Fernandes ji, so I called him,” Nana recalled on the show. “Even he said it was impossible.” Undeterred, Nana explained to Fernandes that although official army training for a commission typically spans six months, he had undergone three years of training with the Maratha Light Infantry during the early 1990s while preparing for his film Prahaar. Surprised by this, Fernandes asked him, “When do you want to go?”
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Service at the LoC
With special permission granted, Nana Patekar traveled to the frontlines in August 1999. For over two weeks, he worked closely with soldiers near the Line of Control (LoC), offering support and even volunteering at a base hospital. He also joined the Quick Response Team (QRT), actively assisting in military operations and logistics.
Reflecting on the experience, Patekar said it was physically taxing but emotionally fulfilling. “I was 76 kg when I reached Srinagar. By the time I came back, I was 56 kg,” he shared, emphasizing the intense physical toll the warzone took on him. Despite this, he described his time at the border as one of profound contentment and purpose.
Following his service during the Kargil War, Nana Patekar returned to his acting career. He was most recently seen in Anil Sharma’s film Vanvaas, which released in theatres in December 2024. His real-life experience of warfare has since added a deeper layer of authenticity and gravitas to the patriotic and military roles he continues to portray on screen.
Nana Patekar’s rare journey—from a celebrated actor to a soldier in a time of national crisis—remains one of the most remarkable and inspiring stories in the history of Indian cinema.
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