Sonali Bendre replaces late Nana Patekar on Kon Honar Crorepati premiere

The Indian film industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Nana Patekar, who passed away on October 8 at the age of 75 following a cardiac arrest. The late actor had been scheduled to appear as a celebrity guest on the premiere episode of the Marathi quiz show Kon Honar Crorepati, which is hosted by Madhuri Dixit. Due to his untimely death, the production team has made adjustments to the opening broadcast, with actor Sonali Bendre now stepping in to take the hot seat.The upcoming season marks a significant transition for the show, as it features a female host for the first time. The premiere, which is set to air on Monday, October 12, at 9 PM on Sony Marathi and Sony LIV, will highlight the first on-screen collaboration between Dixit and Bendre. Reflecting on the new chapter, Dixit noted that sharing the screen with Bendre for the premiere is a special occasion, while Bendre praised the host's natural warmth and talent.Following his passing in Goa, Nana Patekar was laid to rest with full state honours in recognition of his extensive contributions to Indian cinema and theatre. His son, Malhar, confirmed the news of his passing shortly after he was declared dead at 5:20 am. Many prominent figures in the industry have shared tributes to the late actor, with Madhuri Dixit remembering her Wajood co-star as a legendary artist with an unforgettable voice. Bendre is set to play for the Happy Pet Foundation, an organisation dedicated to animal welfare, during the debut episode.