Nana Patekar’s connection with the Indian Army took a remarkable turn during the 1999 Kargil War. The actor, known for portraying several memorable characters in Indian cinema, sought permission to assist soldiers during the conflict. He eventually received special clearance and spent more than two weeks with Army personnel near the Line of Control. His experience with the armed forces had begun several years earlier. Nana Patekar underwent extensive military training while preparing for the movie ‘Prahaar’. That association with the Maratha Light Infantry later became important when he requested permission to travel to the conflict zone.
Nana Patekar wanted to assist soldiers during Kargil War
When the Kargil conflict began, Nana Patekar wanted to contribute beyond his work as an actor. He first approached senior Army officials and expressed his desire to serve alongside the troops. His request could not be approved at that level. He was instead told that clearance would have to come from the Defence Minister. Nana Patekar then contacted then Defence Minister George Fernandes.During his 2025 appearance on ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati 16’, the actor recalled the conversation. “I knew our Defence Minister, George Fernandes ji, so I called him,” Nana Patekar said. “Even he said it was impossible.”
‘Prahaar’ training helped Nana Patekar make his case
Nana Patekar then explained that he already had considerable military training. The actor had trained with the Maratha Light Infantry for three years while preparing for the movie ‘Prahaar’. His previous experience reportedly changed the conversation. After hearing about his training, George Fernandes asked him about his preferred time to travel to the conflict area. “When do you want to go?” George Fernandes asked, according to Nana Patekar’s recollection. Special permission was subsequently granted. Nana Patekar travelled to the conflict zone in August 1999 and spent more than two weeks alongside Army personnel.
Actor worked alongside troops near the LoC
During his stay, Nana Patekar experienced the difficult conditions faced by soldiers. He supported personnel at the base and also volunteered at a military hospital. The actor was additionally associated with the Quick Response Team. His involvement gave him an opportunity to witness military operations and the challenges faced by personnel during the conflict. For Nana Patekar, the experience was different from portraying a soldier for a movie. He was physically present in a war zone and lived through the demanding conditions alongside the troops.
Nana Patekar recalled losing 20 kg
The actor spoke about the physical impact of his time near the conflict zone. The demanding environment resulted in a significant change in his weight. “I was 76 kg when I reached Srinagar. By the time I came back, I was 56 kg,” Nana Patekar recalled during the show. Despite the physical strain, Nana Patekar remembered the experience as deeply fulfilling. His time with the Army also strengthened his understanding of the sacrifices made by soldiers.
Nana Patekar continued his acting career
Nana Patekar returned to cinema after his experience during the Kargil War. His career has included several movies dealing with patriotism, conflict and human emotions. His military preparation for ‘Prahaar’ had already given him first-hand exposure to Army training. His later experience during the Kargil conflict took that connection beyond the movie set. Nana Patekar was most recently seen in ‘Subedaar’ which was released on March 5, 2026.