Mumbai: Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan took to social media to pay an emotional tribute to veteran actor Nana Patekar, remembering him as a mentor, teacher, critic and friend whose blunt honesty and unconventional affection left a lasting impression on him.

In a heartfelt post on social media, Shah Rukh revisited memories of his first meeting with Nana and recalled a piece of advice that stayed with him throughout his acting journey: “Hero banne ke chakkar mein actor mat khona” — do not lose the actor in yourself while chasing stardom.

The two actors worked together in the 1992 film Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman and later shared screen space in Shakti: The Power (2002).

‘He Told You What You Needed to Hear’: SRK Recalls Their First Meeting

Recounting their first encounter, Shah Rukh revealed that he was so awestruck and awkward that he began fiddling with his hair. Nana immediately stopped him and told him not to style his hair like a hero, reminding him that he was an actor.

Shah Rukh described Nana as straightforward, rough and honest, saying he never flattered people or told them merely what they wanted to hear. Instead, he offered the truth they needed to hear.

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The superstar also recalled Nana’s unusual way of expressing affection. According to Shah Rukh, the veteran actor would begin by shouting at people, but his anger would eventually give way to warmth and affection.

“He loved me and I loved him back,” Shah Rukh wrote, capturing the deep personal bond they shared.

Tea, Arguments and Carrom: Memories That Will Last Forever

Beyond their professional association, Shah Rukh remembered Nana as a friend who enjoyed defeating everyone at carrom and took particular delight in his victories.

He expressed regret that they would no longer have opportunities for more conversations, arguments, cups of tea and games together. Remembering Nana’s intensity, laughter, madness and love, Shah Rukh said his passing had left a void in the film industry and in the hearts of people across the world.

The actor concluded his tribute by saying he would carry Nana’s words in his heart forever. He also offered prayers for the departed actor, describing him as a masterful performer and an unbeatable carrom champion.

“Too soon my Hero Actor! RIP,” Shah Rukh wrote, bidding an emotional farewell to the man whose advice reminded him that the craft of acting must always remain more important than the pursuit of stardom.