Known for his intense on-screen presence, Patekar made an extraordinary leap from reel-life patriot to real-life contributor.
Long before the conflict, Patekar had undergone three years of training with the Maratha Light Infantry while preparing for his military-themed film Prahaar. That experience left a lasting impression, fuelling a lifelong respect for the armed forces.
When war broke out in May 1999, Patekar felt a strong desire to contribute. Initially turned away, he approached then Defence Minister George Fernandes, citing his previous training. His determination paid off. By August 1999, he was deployed to the Kargil region with a Quick Response Team (QRT) near the volatile Line of Control.
Though not in direct combat, Patekar supported troops by assisting with logistics and morale. He also volunteered at a military hospital, helping care for wounded soldiers. Enduring harsh mountain conditions, he reportedly lost nearly 20 kilograms during his deployment—a testament to the physical demands faced by Indian soldiers.
Patekar’s quiet yet powerful gesture remains largely unknown to many. On Kargil Vijay Diwas, his service reminds us that patriotism can go beyond symbols and words. His story is a tribute to the countless known and unsung heroes who rise above personal comfort to serve a cause greater than themselves—on screen or on the frontlines.
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