Cinema VinesOn Friday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath publicly praised veteran actor Nana Patekar for his quiet, behind‑the‑scenes support of farmers who had been battling a wave of suicides in Maharashtra. The CM, speaking at a launch event for the state police’s new cyber‑security awareness campaign, recalled how Patekar had personally reached out to the aggrieved farmers, offering help without seeking any publicity or fanfare.
Adityanath described the actor as “not only an actor; he is an equally sensitive human being.” He added that he was surprised when Patekar introduced himself to him while working on the farmers’ cause, noting that the actor’s contributions had been “quietly” made. The CM also highlighted Patekar’s role in a short film aimed at warning citizens about digital arrest scams, which was part of the police’s broader cyber‑awareness drive.
In addition to honoring Patekar, the CM lauded singer‑composer Shankar Mahadevan for giving the Uttar Pradesh Police’s new song “Khaki Ka Sitara” a fresh identity with his voice. Adityanath praised Mahadevan’s singing style, saying it left everyone “enthralled” and that the artist’s rendition could inspire uniformed forces. He remarked that Mahadevan’s name itself evokes a double meaning, likening him to both Shankar and Mahadev.
The launch ceremony was attended by Patekar, Mahadevan, Uttar Pradesh DGP Rajeev Krishna, senior police and government officials. IPS officer Rahul Srivastav, the Public Relations Officer of the Uttar Pradesh Police, scripted the cyber‑awareness short film on “Digital Arrest,” which featured Patekar and was directed by Bollywood writer‑director Raaj Shaandilyaa. Srivastav also served as creative director for the police song, penned by poet‑lyricist Alok Shrivastav, who was present along with actor Karan Aanand.
Adityanath’s remarks came as the event coincided with the month of Sawan, a period of cultural significance in the state. He concluded that the collaboration between the actor, the singer, and the police force would serve as a model of public service and civic pride.
