An old video of Nana Patekar and Anil Kapoor discussing their experience on ‘Parinda’ has resurfaced following the veteran actor’s demise at 75. Recorded during the promotions of ‘Vanvaas’, the conversation revisits a casting decision that once left Nana Patekar feeling disappointed. He recalled how Anil Kapoor had preferred Jackie Shroff for the role of his elder brother in the 1989 film.While Nana Patekar described the experience as being bullied, Anil Kapoor explained why he believed Jackie Shroff was the right choice.
Nana Patekar recalls his experience on ‘Parinda’
During the conversation, Nana Patekar told Anil Kapoor that he had initially prepared for the role eventually played by Jackie Shroff. He recalled rehearsing for the part before the casting decision changed. Nana Patekar said, “You have bullied me a lot in ‘Parinda’. I was doing Jackie Shroff’s role, his elder brother’s role. We rehearsed, we did this, we did that. Later, Jackie came because of him. But I want to thank him because I got to play Anna. No, the reason was that he couldn’t see me as a brother. As per you, Jackie could be your brother in the film but not me”.Despite his disappointment over the initial casting, Nana Patekar acknowledged that the experience ultimately led him to play Anna, one of his memorable characters. His remarks also suggested that he understood the value of the role he eventually received.
Anil Kapoor explains why Jackie Shroff was chosen
Anil Kapoor responded by explaining that he had considered Jackie Shroff a better fit for the role of his character’s brother. He clarified that his opinion was a suggestion rather than the final casting decision, which rested with the filmmaker.Anil Kapoor said, “I might be wrong, but I felt that for my brother’s role, I felt Jackie would be the best choice. I’m being very honest with you. But your honesty has ruined my role. No, but what happens is that you give suggestions to a director. Ultimately, decisions are always made by a director. A director is a director, a filmmaker is a filmmaker. He must have felt that Jackie is a better choice”. Nana Patekar also acknowledged Jackie Shroff’s work in the film, saying, “Jackie did a good job. He got a Filmfare Award”.
Nana Patekar and Anil Kapoor reflect on their friendship
Anil Kapoor further stressed that professional disagreements should not be mistaken for personal betrayal. He said, “So, what I mean to say is that sometimes, there are some things which are very, very important. I will never deceive you with a film”.
Nana Patekar cremated with full state honours
Nana Patekar passed away at 75 in Goa after suffering a cardiac arrest. His last rites were held on Thursday at his farmhouse in Donje village, Pune district. The veteran actor was cremated with full state honours, including a three-gun salute. Jackie Shroff, filmmaker Anil Sharma, director Anees Bazmee and producer Firoz Nadiadwala were among those who attended the funeral. A large crowd also gathered to pay their final respects.
Anil Kapoor mourns the loss of his close friend
Anil Kapoor shared an emotional message remembering Nana Patekar and their late friend Satish Kaushik. He wrote, “My friend has left me… first Satish and now my Nana. Nana, you left suddenly, too soon. The greatest artist in the world has left us forever. I will miss you dearly. In life, on set, on the phone, on the big screen.”Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis paid tribute to Nana Patekar at Pune airport before leaving for Mumbai. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also visited the actor’s farmhouse to offer his condolences.
