Veteran actor Helen has recalled her memories of working with Nana Patekar in ‘Khamoshi: The Musical’, describing him as a respectful actor and a kind human being. The 87-year-old actor played Maria, the mother of Nana Patekar’s character, Joseph, in the 1996 film. Directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali, the movie marked his directorial debut.Helen also remembered the fun moments they shared while filming a song in Goa. As tributes continue to pour in following Nana Patekar’s death, several actors have remembered his contribution to Indian cinema and his distinctive performances.
Helen recalls working with Nana Patekar
In a conversation with Hindustan Times, Helen spoke about her experience working with Nana Patekar on ‘Khamoshi: The Musical’. She remembered him as a considerate co-star and expressed sadness over his sudden passing. “Khamoshi was a beautiful film and having played Nana’s mother, I remember him as a very respectful actor and such a nice human being. Our song from the film ‘Gaate The Pehle Akele’ continues to be a special memory, I remember him being on set and I’m just sad to learn of his sudden passing. I recall we had a lot of fun on that song even between the shots, the scene where I played the piano and we danced on the beach in Goa. Now, all those moments are fond memories. All of us have to go one day but as Salim saab keeps saying ‘Love each other or perish’ (popularized by the memoir Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom). I remember how Sanjay had come to Salim saab’s house to convince me to do Khamoshi because I had been away from the acting world. Today I’m glad I did that movie and met a wonderful actor like Nana and the rest of the cast.”
Helen’s role in ‘Khamoshi: The Musical’
Released in 1996, ‘Khamoshi: The Musical’ tells the story of Joseph and Flavy Braganza, a deaf couple living in Goa. Nana Patekar played Joseph, while Seema Biswas portrayed his wife, Flavy. Manisha Koirala played their daughter, Annie. Helen appeared as Maria, Joseph’s mother. The film explored the family’s relationships and challenges, earning a place among Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s early works. Helen’s memories of the song ‘Gaate The Pehle Akele’ remain particularly meaningful because of the moments she shared with Nana Patekar during filming.
Ranveer Singh and Aditya Dhar pay tribute
Several film personalities have taken to social media to remember Nana Patekar. Ranveer Singh shared a photograph of the veteran actor, accompanying it with a white heart emoji. Filmmaker Aditya Dhar also expressed his grief over the loss. He wrote, “Some people leave behind more than memories, they leave a piece of themselves in our hearts. Nana Patekar ji, you will be deeply missed. Rest in peace.” Telugu actor Allu Arjun praised Nana Patekar’s individuality and his influence as a performer. Remembering the actor’s distinctive style, he wrote, “Path Breaking Artist…Inspirational Actor…Rooted Rustic Performer ! Energetic & Poetic at the same time. One of the most unique gems of Indian cinema. Will always be observed, inspire & Admired. His craftsmanship will be remembered forever . Love & condolences to the near & dear . ॐ SHANTHI.”
Nani, Shah Rukh Khan and Prakash Raj join tributes
Actor Nani also remembered Nana Patekar’s career and distinctive screen presence. He wrote, “What a legendary career and original persona. Every performance and every nuance had his brilliance all over it. Nana patekar sir. Farewell.” Several other celebrities have also paid their respects, including RGV, Shah Rukh Khan and Prakash Raj, Mohanlal, Jr NTR, Prabhudeva, Anil Kapoor, Amitabh Bachchan among others.Meanwhile, Nana Patekar was cremated with full state honours at his farmhouse in Donje village, Pune, on Thursday evening, October 8, 2026. Thousands of fans, family members, and prominent figures from the film and political fraternities attended, including actor Jackie Shroff, Sajid Nadiadwala , Anil Sharma, Anees Bazmee, Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, and others.
