Nana Patekar, one of Indian cinema's most powerful actors, won three National Film Awards over a nine-year period for playing impactful and diverse characters. The acting style he introduced to Bollywood in the 1980s was unprecedented and left a lasting legacy.
In an era where slow dialogue delivery was prized, Patekar ought the angst and rage of the '80s, channeling it through fast-talking and giving his characters unique quirks. His first National Award was for his role in Vidhu Vinod Chopra's "Parinda" (1989). He portrayed Anna, a gangster boss who was both kind and utal. His restrained yet menacing performance set a template for future actors like Manoj Bajpayee.
His second National Award came for "Agni Sakshi" (1996). In this film, Patekar played Vishwanath, a sadistic, controlling, and abusive husband who makes his wife's life a living hell. A particular scene where he assaults his wife and then tends to her wounds himself was a chilling display of his acting range and his ability to command the screen.
His third National Award was for another outstanding performance that showcased his ability to ing complex characters to life. These awards solidified his position as an exceptional actor in the history of Indian cinema.
Many critics and fans are surprised he did not win more National Awards for his strong performances in later films like "Ab Tak Chhappan," "Kaala," and "Natsamrat." Nevertheless, his three National Awards stand as a testament to his immense talent and profound impact on the art of acting in Bollywood.
Source: Film analysis
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