Shah Rukh Khan on Thursday paid an emotional tribute to legendary actor Nana Patekar after his death. The actor recalls their first meeting, Nana’s direct nature and the love they showed in their own unique way.

Shah Rukh Khan reached out to X and recalled how he was initially awkward when he met Nana.

Recalling the moment, she wrote, “When I met him for the first time, I tossed my hair out of surprise and awkwardness. He slapped my hand and said ‘Hero ki tarah baal matt bana…you are an actor’!”

He added, “He didn’t flatter you. He didn’t tell you what you wanted to hear. He told you what you needed to hear. He was Nana, direct, honest, honest and had the most beautiful smile. He always had a strange way of showing affection. He would yell at you first, and then somewhere between the third or fourth insult, you loved him and I loved him.”

Shah Rukh Khan also remembers Nana as a mentor, teacher, critic and friend while recalling games of carrom.

“He was a mentor, a teacher, a critic and a friend who beat me and everyone around him at the carrom game and reveled in his victories.”

The actor said Nana’s presence, laughter and love will live on with everyone who knew him.

“Nana your intensity, laughter, craziness and love will always be with us. I wish we had time to have more conversations, one more debate, one more cup of tea and another game of carrom. You have left a void not only in the world of cinema but in the hearts of all Indians and the world. All I can say is, I will miss you dearly and will be in your heart till the end of your words. Actor Matt Khona May your soul rest in peace. Nana and may Allah bless you.

Shah Rukh Khan concluded his tribute by remembering Nana as both an accomplished actor and a brilliant carrom player.

“Heaven bless you…a wonderful actor and an unbeatable carrom champion. Love you and miss you so much!! See you soon my hero actor! RIP.”

Shah Rukh Khan and Nana Patekar worked together in the 1992 romantic comedy film The king became a gentleman. He also appeared in the 2002 film directed by Aziz Mirza, Shakti: Power.

Nana Patekar died of a heart attack at his home in Goa. He was 75 years old.

Also Read: ‘Hindi mein bol, English nahi aati’: When Nana Patekar’s one-liner lit up the press meet