Hema Malini has spoken out about missing a final phone call from Nana Patekar just days before his death, revealing she was travelling when he rang. The veteran actress told IANS she was shocked upon learning of his passing at 75 after a cardiac arrest at his home in Goa — declared dead at 5:20 am. Though the two never worked together on screen, they had stayed in touch over the years. She recalled their last conversation: “He rang a few days back. He spoke to me also. Just about a week back also I had one call, I think. But somehow I missed because I was travelling. So, when I heard today, I was shocked.” She described Patekar as an institution for acting, a force whose presence defined generations of Indian cinema. Her tribute on X echoed that sentiment: “Today we have lost an icon of the film industry. Nana Patekar, who has carved a place for himself with his unique acting talent and was hailed as a complete institution of histrionics is no more.” She highlighted his work through the Naam Foundation, which supports farmers and underprivileged communities, calling it tireless. “He has left behind a rich legacy of films in Hindi and Marathi that showcase his great talent in a variety of roles,” she wrote. She added a personal note: “He too has mentioned that I was his favourite actress in classic cinema.” The post ended with a prayer: “The film industry will surely miss this stawart.” Patekar’s last rites were held at his Donje farmhouse in Pune on Thursday, with full state honours. Chants of “Nana Amar Rahe” filled the air. His son, Malhar, lit the funeral pyre. Attendees included Jackie Shroff, Sajid Nadiadwala, Anil Sharma, and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who visited Patekar’s native village to pay respects. The actor had long been known for his versatility across genres and languages, and for speaking up on issues like consumer rights, once revealing why the film Horn ‘OK’ Pleassss never released, citing distributor demands. His final public appearance came just four days before his death, where he discussed mortality. The moment now carries a quiet weight, felt by fans and colleagues alike.