July 26 is celebrated in India as Kargil Vijay Divas, marking India’s triumph over Pakistan in the Kargil War and the expulsion of Pakistani forces. On this significant day, we reflect on a moment when a Bollywood star contributed to the nation during the Kargil War. This actor was a member of the elite Quick Reaction Team and spent more than two weeks living with soldiers during the conflict.

Nana Patekar, renowned for his portrayal of Major Pratap Chauhan in the 1991 film ‘Prahaar’, which he also directed, fought alongside the Indian Army during the 1999 Kargil War. He spent over two weeks moving from post to post, serving as an inspiring figure for the troops and acting as an “unofficial cheerleader” of sorts.

During a recent interview, nana recalled his days at the Kargil war fought between India and Pakistan and revealed that he was a part of Quick Reaction Team. It is one of the most elite forces in the army. He also said that this is the least we can do this for the country.

Nana Patekar regards soldiers as the true heroes of the country. On multiple occasions, he has expressed his strong opinions about the armed forces, emphasizing that soldiers are the real heroes, not actors. He advised people to honor the soldiers who risk their lives for the nation’s security. In an interview, he mentioned that the greatest weapon is not military equipment but the soldiers themselves.