Vishwanath Patekar was born on January 1, 1951, in the picturesque town of Murud-Janjira, Maharashtra, India. This talented individual is a multifaceted personality, exceling as an actor, writer, and filmmaker. His impressive body of work includes notable films such as Ab Tak Chhappan (2004),Raajneeti (2010),and Parinda (1989).
Patekar's acting career spans over four decades, with his debut in the early 1970s. Throughout his illustrious career, he has received numerous award nominations, including a National Film Award and a Filmfare award for his supporting role in Parinda (1989). He then went on to win the Best Villain award for his role in Angaar (1992).
Known for his unconventional acting style, dialogues, and dialogue delivery, Patekar is often referred to as the "Morgan Freeman of Bollywood." In 1995, he won the National Film Award, as well as the Filmfare and Screen awards for Best Actor for his role in Krantiveer (1994). He is the only actor to have won Filmfare Awards in the Best Actor, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Villain categories.
In 2013, Patekar was honored with the Padma Shri award, the highest recognition in the field of films and arts, for his dedication and contributions to the industry.
Apart from his acting career, Patekar is also an alumnus of the Sir J.J. Institute of Applied Art, Mumbai. In September 2015, he co-founded the Naam Foundation with fellow Marathi actor Makarand Anaspure, which focuses on providing aid to farmers affected by drought conditions in Maharashtra, India.
When he was awarded the Raj Kapoor award, carrying a cash prize of Rs 10,00,000, Patekar demonstrated his generosity by donating the entire amount towards drought relief activities in Maharashtra.
Patekar was married to Neelkantee Patekar and had a son, Malhar Patekar, but unfortunately, their marriage did not work out, resulting in a divorce.