Nana Patekar credits Congress for democracy’s survival in India

Veteran Bollywood actor Nana Patekar on Friday said "Don't say the Congress did nothing in so many years in power. That is not correct." Patekar was reacting to questions over the ruling BJP's strident allegations against the Congress at its 38th Foundation Day celebrations.

"Politicians will keep bickering, but we are all aware of the situation facing the country now. Our democracy has survived for so many years in India. The credit for that goes to the Congress alone. Is it not a major achievement?" asked the 67-year old actor.

Patekar was replying to questions from media persons on growing disenchantment with the Bharatiya Janata Party.

The actor-turned-social activist also spoke his mind on other issues like the burning problems of farmers and fair remunerative prices for their produce, and why Bollywood or entertainment personalities did not deserve to be conferred state honours like the Padma awards.

Patekar also added he would "happy" if elder statesman Sharad Pawar became the Prime Minister. "If a Marathi person occupies the country's topmost position (PM), it would make me very happy," Patekar said candidly at a function of his NGO Naam Foundation.

Referring to 1996, the actor said that when then Karnataka Chief Minister HD Deve Gowda was elevated as the PM, even the Maratha strongman's name was being discussed in political circles, but he narrowly missed the opportunity at that time.