Mumbai, October 15, 2025 – Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, who gave life to one of television’s most powerful and tragic characters — Karna in B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat — passed away today at the age of 68. After a prolonged fight with cancer, during which he underwent major surgery and experienced a relapse in recent months, Dheer’s health deteriorated, leading to his untimely demise.
The Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) confirmed his passing. In an official statement, they said: “With profound grief and deep sorrow, we inform you of the passing of our Trust’s erstwhile Chairman and CINTAA’s former Hon. General Secretary, Shri Pankaj Dheer ji, on 15th October 2025. The cremation will be held today at 4:30 pm at Pawanhans Crematorium, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai.”
Life & Career: From Humble Beginnings to Television Legend
Born in 1957 (approx.), Pankaj Dheer made his foray into acting in the early 1980s. His career spanned films, television, and even direction. Though he appeared in several films and serials, his portrayal of Karna in Mahabharat (1988–1990) remains his most iconic role.
Some of his noteworthy works include:
- Television: Mahabharat (as Karna), Chandrakanta (as King Shiv Dutt), Yug, Badho Bahu, Sasural Simar Ka, Devon Ke Dev…Mahadev, among others.
- Film: He took roles in Sadak, Soldier, Baadshah, Sanam Bewafa, Tarzan, Andaaz, etc.
- Other Contributions: Founder of the Abhinay Acting Academy, and served in important roles at CINTAA, including as its former General Secretary.
The Final Battle
According to reports, Dheer had been battling cancer for some time. After receiving treatment, he appeared to recover, but the disease relapsed a few months ago. He also underwent a major surgery in an attempt to contain the illness, but his condition worsened in recent days.
Legacy & Reactions
Pankaj Dheer’s death has left a deep void in Indian television and among millions of fans who grew up watching Mahabharat. His nuanced portrayal of Karna — the loyal, noble, and conflicted hero — made him not just a star but a figure who transcended the screen. His on-screen dignity, moral struggles, and heroic bearing continue to be celebrated.
Colleagues and fellow actors have paid tribute:
- Gajendra Chauhan, who played Yudhisthir in Mahabharat, remembered Dheer as jovial and warm off-screen, even though Karna was a stern and powerful character.
- Arjun Feroz Khan, who played Arjun opposite his Karna, posted heartfelt messages recalling their bond.
- Producers, directors, and industry bodies have expressed shock and sorrow at the loss.
Personal Life & Survivors
Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife, Anita Dheer, and their son, Nikitin Dheer, who himself is an actor. His daughter-in-law is Kratika Sengar.
Remembering Karna
For generations, Pankaj Dheer was Karna. His performance in Mahabharat set a benchmark — for how mythological characters could be given depth, vulnerability, conflict, and dignity. Even decades after the show first aired, his scenes continue to be shared, quoted, and celebrated. His voice, stance, the character’s sense of honor and pain — all remain etched firmly in Indian popular culture.
Final Thoughts
The loss of Pankaj Dheer is not just the passing of an actor, but the farewell of an era — a time when TV epics had heart and gravitas, and characters were larger than life but with real human emotions. His battle with cancer ended, but the legacy he built lives on, in every young actor inspired by him, in every viewer who ever felt moved by Karna’s story.
May he rest in peace, and may his family find strength in the outpouring of respect and love he leaves behind.
