Nana Patekar's 1997 Confession About Manisha Koirala Viral After His Death: 'I Can Barely Hold Back Tears'

Nana Patekar once spoke emotionally about his breakup with Manisha Koirala, admitting he missed her. Manisha later paid tribute after his death.

Nana Patekar once struggled to hold back tears while speaking about his breakup with Manisha Koirala. In a 1997 interview, the actor admitted how deeply the separation had affected him, saying, "I miss Manisha." Years later, following Nana's death on October 8, Manisha paid tribute to the actor, remembering his contribution to Indian cinema.

Nana Patekar Said He Still Missed Manisha Koirala

Nana and Manisha's relationship was widely discussed in film tabloids during the 1990s. The two actors worked together in films such as Khamoshi and Agni Sakshi, and were shooting for Yug Purush when they broke up.

In the 1997 interview, Nana spoke about the pain of the separation but did not want to discuss the details publicly.

"It's a very difficult phase. You have to experience it to know the pain. I can't find words to describe the pain I went through. Please, let's not talk about this. I miss Manisha," he said.

Despite their breakup, Nana continued to speak highly of Manisha and her talent. He described her as a sensitive actor who did not need to measure herself against others.

"Manisha has an inborn talent. She's the most sensitive actress around. She's like a kasturi hiran, she still has to realise that she doesn't need to keep pace with anyone. She has it all and that's more than enough," he said.

Nana Patekar Was Concerned About Manisha Koirala

Nana also spoke about his concern for Manisha during a difficult period in her life. In the same interview, he appeared emotional while discussing what he believed she was putting herself through.

"I can barely hold back the tears when I see what she's doing to herself. Maybe I don't have the right to say anything about her today."

Years later, Manisha wrote about her struggles with alcohol in her memoir Healed. She explained that she had turned to drinking to cope with the pressures of work and her personal life.

"To take my mind off shoots, to numb myself, I started drinking. If I was on a diet, it would be vodka."

Their Films Remain Part Of Their Shared History

Nana and Manisha worked together in Khamoshi and Agni Sakshi, both of which featured performances that earned attention from audiences. Nana won a National Film Award for his work in Agni Sakshi.

Their professional association continued with Yug Purush, which they were filming around the time their relationship ended. Although their personal equation changed, Nana did not publicly speak negatively about Manisha after their separation.

Manisha Koirala Pays Tribute To Nana Patekar

Nana Patekar died at his residence in Goa on Thursday, October 8. His death prompted tributes from people who remembered his contribution to cinema and his distinct place in the industry.

Manisha also shared a message on Instagram following his death. She wrote, "Deeply saddened by the passing of a great actor and a true stalwart of the craft. His contribution to cinema and his dedication to his craft will always be remembered."

Nana was married to Neelkanthi during his relationship with Manisha, although he and his wife were separated at the time. They never divorced. Manisha later married businessman Samrat Dahal in 2010, but their marriage ended after two years.