Nana Patekar is known for portraying powerful and patriotic characters on screen, but his connection with the Indian armed forces went beyond cinema. During the 1999 Kargil War, the actor expressed his desire to serve alongside Indian soldiers and eventually spent more than two weeks near the Line of Control.
Nana Patekar recently recalled the extraordinary experience on Kaun Banega Crorepati 16, explaining how his extensive military training for the film Prahaar helped him get permission to visit the war zone.
Nana Patekar Wanted to Serve During the Kargil War
When the Kargil conflict began in 1999, Nana Patekar approached senior Army officials and expressed his wish to contribute to the efforts of Indian soldiers. However, his request was initially not approved.
He was reportedly told that permission from the Defence Minister would be required. Nana Patekar then contacted the then Defence Minister George Fernandes, whom he already knew.
According to the actor’s account, Fernandes initially rejected the request as well. However, the conversation changed after Nana Patekar explained his previous military training.
How Prahaar Training Helped Nana Patekar
For his role in the 1991 film Prahaar: The Final Attack, Nana Patekar underwent rigorous military training with the Maratha Light Infantry.
The actor has recalled that he trained with the regiment for around three years while preparing for the film. This experience gave him familiarity with military discipline, physical training and the demanding routine followed by soldiers.
When Nana Patekar told George Fernandes about his military training, the Defence Minister asked him when he wanted to go to the war zone.
Nana Patekar eventually travelled to the Kargil area in August 1999, where he spent more than two weeks alongside Indian soldiers.
Nana Patekar Experienced Soldiers’ Lives First-Hand
The actor’s time in the conflict zone gave him an opportunity to understand the challenges faced by soldiers beyond what he had experienced while preparing for film roles.
Nana Patekar reportedly helped soldiers at the base and also volunteered at a military hospital. He was also associated with a Quick Response Team, giving him an opportunity to witness the difficult conditions surrounding military operations.
For the actor, the experience was very different from portraying a soldier on screen. This time, he was actually present in a conflict environment and living alongside personnel dealing with the realities of war.
Nana Patekar Lost 20 Kg During the Experience
The physically demanding conditions also had a significant impact on Nana Patekar’s body.
While recalling the experience on KBC 16, the actor revealed that his weight changed dramatically during his time in the region.
He said that when he reached Srinagar, he weighed 76 kg, but when he returned, his weight had dropped to 56 kg—a reduction of 20 kg.
The revelation highlighted just how physically demanding his time around the conflict zone had been.
Nana Patekar’s Journey From Prahaar to Kargil
Nana Patekar’s Kargil experience remains one of the lesser-known chapters of his career. While his performances in films such as Prahaar and Tirangaa established his image as an actor capable of portraying patriotic and military characters, his involvement during the Kargil conflict gave him a real-life connection with the armed forces.
After the Kargil War ended, Nana Patekar returned to his acting career. He continued to work across Hindi cinema and remained known for his intense performances and distinctive screen presence.
His most recent film appearance was reportedly in Subedaar, released on March 5, 2026
