Veteran actor Nana Patekar recently shared an amusing yet candid anecdote from the sets of Kaala, the Rajinikanth-starrer directed by Pa Ranjith. While the film is remembered for the intense face-off between Rajinikanth and Nana Patekar, the presence of Pankaj Tripathi in a relatively small role caught Patekar off guard.
In a recent interview with News 18, Nana revealed that he was surprised to see Tripathi—now widely regarded as one of the finest actors in Indian cinema—playing a minor character in such a big-budget film.
Recalling the moment, Nana said, “We were shooting the film Kaala with Rajinikanth Anna. Pankaj Tripathi was playing a very small role, of a police officer. I saw him and asked, ‘Pankaj, what are you doing here?’”
Tripathi reportedly responded that it was a small role, but he took it because he wanted the opportunity to work with stalwarts like Nana Patekar and Rajinikanth.
However, Nana wasn’t convinced. In his trademark blunt style, he told the actor, “Why do you take such roles?” When Tripathi explained his reasoning, Nana added half-jokingly but firmly, “Never take such roles again, or I’ll hit you.”
Despite the seemingly harsh warning, the remark reflected Nana Patekar’s respect for Tripathi’s talent. He implied that an actor of Tripathi’s calibre deserved more substantial roles rather than brief appearances, even in high-profile films.
Over the years, Pankaj Tripathi has indeed carved a niche for himself with powerful performances in films and series, earning both critical acclaim and a massive fan following. His journey from smaller roles to leading performances highlights the very growth Nana seemed to be advocating for.
Meanwhile, Kaala remains a significant film in both actors’ filmographies—celebrated for its political undertones, strong performances, and the iconic clash between Nana Patekar and Rajinikanth.
What started as a stern on-set remark now comes across as a moment of mentorship—delivered in Nana Patekar’s unmistakably fiery style.
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