Former Bollywood actress Tanushree Dutta has faced renewed criticism following controversial remarks about veteran actor Nana Patekar, amid reports of his death on October 8, 2026. Her comments have reignited discussion surrounding their long-running controversy and earlier sexual harassment allegations.
During an Instagram Live session on Friday, October 9, Dutta reportedly compared Patekar to the mythological figure Raavan while defending her decision to speak publicly about her experiences and concerns.
“I will not hesitate to speak the truth because I am not scared,” she said, according to a report by Hungama Express.
Her remarks attracted criticism from sections of the Indian film industry, with some questioning the timing and tone of her statements.
‘Evil Dead’ Remark Sparks Controversy
The latest comments followed a video Dutta shared on October 8, in which she referred to Patekar as “evil dead”.
In the video, she explained that she had planned to focus on professional commitments and publish content on social media but was concerned that media coverage would concentrate on her reaction to the actor’s reported death.
She also expressed condolences to Patekar’s family before ending her remarks.
The video subsequently drew attention online and prompted criticism from the All Indian Cine Workers Association (AICWA).
Its president, Suresh Shyamlal, reportedly criticised Dutta’s statement, describing it as an attempt at cheap publicity and calling it shameful.
Dutta Refers to Other High-Profile Cases
During her Instagram Live session, Dutta also questioned the circumstances surrounding Patekar’s reported death and referred to investigations involving actor Sushant Singh Rajput and Disha Salian.
However, she did not present evidence establishing a connection between Patekar and those cases. Her comments should therefore be understood as her own statements rather than verified findings linking the actor to either investigation.
The remarks have added another layer to the public controversy surrounding Dutta and Patekar, drawing renewed attention to their history.
Earlier Sexual Harassment Allegations
Dutta accused Patekar of sexual harassment in 2008, alleging that he behaved inappropriately towards her while they were working on the film Horn ‘Ok’ Pleassss.
The allegations later became part of a wider discussion about workplace harassment in India’s entertainment industry, particularly as the #MeToo movement gained prominence in the country.
The controversy brought increased public attention to the experiences of women working in film and television and prompted broader conversations about professional conduct and accountability.
Patekar has previously faced public scrutiny over the allegations, which became a significant part of the two actors’ public history.
Controversy Draws Renewed Attention
Dutta’s latest statements have once again brought the longstanding dispute into the spotlight. While some criticism has focused on the language she used, the episode has also revived discussion of the earlier allegations and the wider issue of workplace harassment in the entertainment industry.
The reaction highlights how past controversies involving prominent actors can return to public attention following major developments or widely circulated social media statements.
As debate continues online, it remains important to distinguish between Dutta’s allegations, her recent opinions and independently established facts. Claims about any connection to other criminal investigations should not be treated as established without supporting evidence.
Also read: Nana Patekar Reveals Rishi Kapoor’s Temperament on Set
