Actor Nana Patekar’s association with the Indian Army goes beyond his admiration for India’s armed forces. During the 1999 Kargil War, the actor spent around two months with Army personnel after seeking permission from then Defence Minister George Fernandes.
In a 2024 conversation with The Lallantop, Patekar recalled how he wanted to be with the troops during the conflict and approached Fernandes for permission.
According to the actor, Fernandes initially told him that a civilian could not simply join the Army. Patekar then explained that he had completed a commando course, had experience with firearms and had represented India at the national level in rifle shooting.
He recalled telling the Defence Minister about his shooting background and his willingness to serve alongside the troops.
From Actor to Army QRT
Patekar said Fernandes eventually asked him when he wanted to leave. When the actor replied that he was ready, he was reportedly told to leave that very day.
The actor recalled spending approximately 60 days with Army personnel, travelling through locations including Dras, Leh, Kupwara, Baramulla and Sopore.
Patekar also revealed that he eventually became part of a Quick Reaction Team (QRT).
However, when asked about exactly what he did during his time with the troops, the actor chose not to discuss operational details.
His decision to remain discreet highlighted that he did not view the experience as something to publicise or boast about.
‘I Was 76 Kg, Came Back at 56 Kg’
Patekar also spoke about the physical demands of his time with the Army.
Recalling the experience, he said he weighed around 76 kg when he left and returned weighing approximately 56 kg.
The dramatic change, he suggested, reflected the physically demanding conditions and lifestyle he experienced during his time with the troops.
Despite the hardships, Patekar said he felt happy that he could contribute in whatever small way he could.
“I could at least do this little bit for the country,” he said.
The actor has maintained a long-standing admiration for India’s armed forces and has previously spoken about his experiences and association with soldiers.
His account of the Kargil period offers a rare glimpse into an unusual chapter of his life—one in which an actor stepped away from the film set and chose to spend time alongside soldiers during one of India’s most challenging military conflicts.
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