As per reports, Nayak, who was a part of the show right from the start, had been undergoing treatment for cancer. However, even between his chemotherapy sessions, he had flown to Daman for a special episode. 

In fact, in an old interview, the actor had stated that he wanted to work for as long as possible. 

I am eagerly waiting to get back to work. I go through chemotherapy and it happens once in a month. The doctor has told me I can work and there is no problem. I just want to spread positivity.

-Nayak to India Today

Nayak had actually been a part of the entertainment industry for over 50 years and worked in hundreds of Gujarati and Hindi shows and movies. But, it wasn’t always smooth sailing. As he admitted himself, it wasn’t until TMKOC, that his life changed for the better.

Sirf 3 rupay ke liye mujhe 24 ghante kaam karna hota tha. Imandaari se kahun toh 10-15 saal pehle humari film industry mein zyada paisa nahin milta tha. In fact, kabhi kabhi humein humari fees bhi nahi mil paati thi… Taarak Mehta Ka Oolta Chashmah karne ke baad meri life mein thehraav aa gaya. 

-Nayak to Dainik Bhaskar

He had also stated that his only focus was to not be scared of life, even in the midst of Covid. He had said that he would like to die with his makeup on. 

The COVID situation has been going on since last year and it will be here but that doesn’t mean I will get scared and sit at home. I am a positive person and never get upset or negative in life. I want to work till the last breath of my life and would like to die with my makeup on. I just want God to fulfil my wish. 

-Nayak to TOI

Rest in peace, beloved Nattu kaka.