Cinema meets cricket: Throwback to Nana Patekar’s candid admiration for Virat Kohli
Nana Patekar was known for his powerful performances on the big screen, but away from cinema, the veteran actor had another passion that connected him deeply with millions of Indians — cricket.
Following the actor’s demise on October 8, 2026, an old interview in which he spoke candidly about his love for cricket and admiration for Virat Kohli has resurfaced. Patekar’s comments offered a glimpse into the fan behind the celebrated actor, and his unusual reaction to Kohli’s dismissals quickly became one of the most talked-about parts of the interview.
Nana Patekar was a huge Virat Kohli fan
Patekar did not hide his admiration for Kohli. During an interview, he openly described the former India captain as his favourite player and explained just how emotionally invested he was whenever Kohli walked out to bat.
“Virat is my favourite player. If he gets out early, I lose my appetite. That’s how much I care about cricket,” Patekar said.
Nana Patekar is a huge Virat Kohli fan. ♥️pic.twitter.com/DkXVFdpD6E
— Akshat Om (@AkshatOM10) January 3, 2025
The comment struck a chord with cricket fans because it was so relatable. For millions of supporters, watching Kohli bat has often been an emotional experience, particularly during high-pressure international matches.
Patekar’s admission went viral again in January 2025 after Kohli was dismissed cheaply during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Social media users turned the actor’s old remarks into a series of humorous memes, joking about whether Patekar had managed to eat after Kohli returned to the pavilion early.
Cricket was more than just a spectator sport for Nana Patekar
Patekar’s connection with cricket went much deeper than simply watching matches.
In an older interview, he recalled playing cricket during his younger days and described himself as an off-spin bowler. Financial difficulties meant he could not afford formal cricket coaching, so he found his own way to stay close to the game.
Patekar recalled going to Mumbai’s Shivaji Park and bowling to players who were practising in the nets. He even believed that, with around 10 days of practice, he could still return to the ground and bowl effectively.
The actor also remembered being glued to the television whenever India played Pakistan. His passion for the sport remained with him even as his acting career reached extraordinary heights.
Nana Patekar compared cricket with acting
Interestingly, Patekar saw a strong connection between cricket and cinema.
While discussing the two professions, he suggested that both involved prolonged periods of preparation followed by public judgment. His comparison reflected his understanding of the pressure faced by both cricketers and actors.
“Cricketers’ games last five days, but our exams go on for one and a half to two years, and the audience ultimately delivers the verdict.”
It was a revealing observation from an actor who had spent decades working under the scrutiny of audiences and critics.
Virat Kohli’s early dismissals once made headlines
Patekar’s comments about Kohli became particularly memorable because of their simplicity. He was not analysing Kohli’s technique or discussing statistics. Instead, he was speaking like an ordinary cricket fan whose mood depended on how his favourite batter performed.
When Kohli got out early, Patekar said he did not feel like eating. That candid confession later became a source of humour online, but it also highlighted how passionately he followed Indian cricket.
His admiration for Kohli reflected the emotional connection that the batter has built with fans across generations.
