Актер Нана Патекар провел 60 дней в рядах индийской армии во время войны в Кашмире

Nana Patekar’s connection with the Indian armed forces goes far beyond his admiration for soldiers. The veteran actor once revealed that he spent nearly 60 days with Indian Army personnel during the 1999 Kargil War after personally seeking permission from then Defence Minister George Fernandes. During a 2024 interview with The Lallantop, Nana recalled how he approached Fernandes because he wanted to join the troops during the conflict. The Defence Minister initially told him that a civilian could not simply become part of the Army. However, Nana explained that he had undergone commando training and was experienced with firearms. Speaking about his shooting abilities, he recalled telling Fernandes, "I am a good shooter. I have competed at the national level in rifle shooting." According to Nana, 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. Nana went on to spend around two months with Army personnel and travelled to several places, including Dras, Leh, Kupwara, Baramulla and Sopore. He also revealed that he became part of a Quick Reaction Team, commonly known as a QRT. However, when asked about what exactly he did during his time with the troops, Nana refused to disclose operational details. "Don't ask me now," he said, choosing to keep that part of his experience private. The actor also recalled the intense physical toll the experience took on him. Revealing that he lost around 20 kg during those two months, Nana said, "I was 76 kg. When I came back, I was 56 kg." Despite spending weeks alongside soldiers during one of India’s most significant military conflicts, Nana said he rarely spoke about the experience publicly. For him, it was not something he wanted to use to seek praise or attention. Reflecting on why he chose to be there, Nana said, "I felt happy. I could at least do this little bit for the country." His account offers a lesser-known glimpse into his association with the Indian Army and the lengths he was willing to go to contribute during the Kargil War. Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated! Find the best of Al News in one place, specially curated for you every weekend. Stay on top of the latest tech trends and biggest startup news.