For over three decades, Amar Jadhav has remained a devoted admirer of Nana Patekar, reflecting a rare fan-hero bond built on consistency, respect and enduring influence
What began as a chance meeting with actor Nana Patekar at Kolhapur’s Rankala lake during the shooting of ‘Yugpurush’ in 1997 blossomed into a bond that transcended celebrity and fandom. Now 60, Jadhav remembers not the cinematic genius, but the mentor, guide and friend who opened his doors and heart to him. He donated Rs 5 lakh to Gayan Samaj Deval Club during its 125th foundation anniversary celebrations and remained closely connected with the city’s artistic fraternity. But perhaps the moment that best captured the man behind the actor came after the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.
Because it gave me another chance to meet my hero,” Jadhav said, i would personally take it to Mumbai,.
“When I told Nana sir how big a fan I was, he invited me to his Mumbai home for the Ganesh festival. “Within no time, he arranged a brand-new ambulance for us,” Jadhav said. Kolhapur : For nearly three decades, Gangavesh resident Amar Jadhav carried a friendship that most fans can only dream of. The actor’s generosity often arrived without fanfare. When Patekar learnt that the ambulance operated by Jadhav’s organisation had fallen into disrepair, he immediately stepped in. “He knew every member of my family. Sometimes he would call and ask for Kolhapuri jaggery. His support for Kolhapur’s cultural institutions was unwavering too. Patekar was invited to speak at a public event While in Kolhapur. He declined the microphone. Instead, he asked the gathering to stand in silence and pay tribute to the fallen heroes.
That visit turned into a tradition that continued since then,” Jadhav recalled, fighting back emotions before rushing to Donje for the actor’s last rites.