Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath publicly recognized actor Nana Patekar for his work supporting farmers affected by suicides in Maharashtra. The Chief Minister revealed that the Bollywood veteran carried out his social work quietly, without any publicity or show-off. Adityanath made these comments on Friday during the launch event of the Uttar Pradesh Police song “Khaki Ka Sitara” in Lucknow.
The event also saw the Chief Minister praising singer-composer Shankar Mahadevan for giving the police song a new identity with his voice. Both Patekar and Mahadevan attended the event along with senior police officials and government officers.
CM Recalls Nana Patekar’s Work During Maharashtra Farmer Crisis
Speaking at the song launch, Adityanath remembered how Patekar stepped forward to help farmers in Maharashtra when the state was going through a difficult period with many farmer suicides. The Chief Minister described Patekar as more than just a film actor.
“Nana Patekar is not only an actor; he is an equally sensitive human being. When farmers in Maharashtra had started committing suicides on a large scale, the person who extended a helping hand to those farmers was none other than Nana Patekar.”
Adityanath shared that he was surprised when Patekar came to meet him while working for farmers. The actor introduced himself and spoke about his efforts to support farming families in distress.
“I was very surprised. Such a big actor was working for farmers, but it was true.”
The Chief Minister stressed that Patekar did all this work quietly, without any media attention or public display. He worked behind the scenes to help those in need.
Nana Patekar’s Long History of Supporting Farmers
This is not the first time Nana Patekar has been recognized for his work with farmers. The National Award-winning actor has been actively involved in helping farming communities for many years.
In 2015, Patekar along with actor Makrand Anaspure set up the Naam Foundation to help farmers in distress. The foundation provides financial help to families of farmers who have died by suicide and works to create alternative job opportunities for farmers in rural areas.
Patekar and Anaspure distributed cheques to 113 families of farmers from Latur and Osmanabad districts in Maharashtra who had lost their loved ones. The foundation also donated Rs 12.75 lakh to 85 families of drought-hit farmers who died by suicide.
The actor has visited many villages in Maharashtra and provided money to families of distressed farmers. His foundation transfers money directly to farmers’ accounts without waiting for government aid. His work has helped save many farmers from taking extreme steps.
In May 2026, Patekar made an emotional appeal to farmers struggling with suicidal thoughts, urging them to reach out for help.
Actor Also Contributed to UP Police Cyber Awareness Campaign
Adityanath also revealed that Nana Patekar contributed to the Uttar Pradesh Police’s cyber-security awareness campaign. The actor featured in a short film aimed at warning people about online threats like digital arrest scams.
The Chief Minister thanked the actor for lending his talent to the police’s awareness campaign. The short film on ‘Digital Arrest’ was scripted by IPS officer Rahul Srivastav, who is the Public Relations Officer of Uttar Pradesh Police. The film was directed by well-known Bollywood writer-director Raaj Shaandilyaa.
In January 2026, Uttar Pradesh Police had made this short film with Nana Patekar to educate people about cyber crimes.
Shankar Mahadevan Praised for Police Song
The Chief Minister also had high praise for Shankar Mahadevan, who sang the Uttar Pradesh Police song “Khaki Ka Sitara”. Adityanath said Mahadevan’s singing style left everyone impressed.
“His name itself is Shankar and in keeping with his name, he has become a double Shankar — he is Shankar as well as Mahadev.”
The Chief Minister noted that the song’s launch happened during the month of Sawan, which made the occasion more special. He said the Padma-honoured artist’s rendition had given “Khaki Ka Sitara” a new identity and could serve as an inspiration for uniformed forces.
The song was penned by noted poet-lyricist Alok Shrivastav. IPS officer Rahul Srivastav worked as the creative director for the song. Actor Karan Aanand, who played a meaningful role in the song, also attended the event.
Event Attended by Senior Officials
The launch event was attended by Uttar Pradesh DGP Rajeev Krishna, senior police officers, and government officials. The Chief Minister’s recognition of Patekar’s social work has brought attention to the actor’s long-standing commitment to helping farmers.
Patekar’s work with the Naam Foundation continues to support farming communities in Maharashtra. The foundation focuses on providing immediate financial help to families in crisis and creating long-term solutions for farmers facing economic hardship.
The actor has always maintained a low profile when it comes to his social work. He has never used his charity work for publicity, which made Adityanath’s public acknowledgment of his efforts more meaningful.
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A Different Side of the Bollywood Veteran
Nana Patekar is known for his powerful performances in films like “Krantiveer”, “Parinda”, and “Welcome”. But beyond his film career, he has shown a deep concern for social issues, especially the problems faced by farmers in rural India.
His work with the Naam Foundation has been widely appreciated. The foundation not only provides money to families in need but also works on creating awareness about financial planning among farmers. Patekar has often spoken about the need for farmers to avoid taking loans for lavish weddings and other unnecessary expenses.
In 2017, Patekar supported the demand for loan waivers for Maharashtra farmers during their strike. He has consistently spoken out about the problems farmers face and has warned against the political exploitation of farmers.
The actor’s dedication to the cause has earned him respect beyond the film industry. His willingness to work quietly and without seeking attention sets him apart from many other celebrities who engage in charity work.
The Chief Minister’s comments have shed light on Patekar’s humanitarian side, reminding people that the actor is not just a talented performer but also a compassionate human being who cares about the less fortunate.
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