Mumbai, October 15, 2025: Veteran television and film actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for portraying Karna in the epic TV series Mahabharat, passed away in Mumbai on Tuesday at the age of 68 after a prolonged fight with cancer. His cremation took place at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle the same evening, attended by family, colleagues, and prominent Bollywood figures.
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Pankaj Dheer was a revered name in Indian television and cinema, with a career spanning over three decades. His role in B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat (1988) made him a household name, and his powerful portrayal of Karna left an indelible mark on Indian pop culture. According to the Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) (source), Dheer had been receiving treatment for cancer for several months.
Iconic Roles and Career Legacy
Beyond Mahabharat, Dheer featured in numerous acclaimed TV series such as Chandrakanta, Yug, Kanoon, and Badho Bahu. In cinema, he appeared in popular films like Baadshah, Sadak, Soldier, and Taarzan: The Wonder Car. His commanding screen presence and disciplined approach to acting earned him respect among peers and fans alike. According to The Indian Express (source), his cremation drew several Bollywood celebrities, including Salman Khan and Sidharth Malhotra, who came to pay their final respects.
Dheer also contributed to the entertainment industry as a mentor and producer. He founded Visage Studioz in Mumbai and launched Abbhinnay Acting Academy, nurturing young talent in television and film. As a senior member and former honorary general secretary of CINTAA, he was deeply involved in improving working conditions for actors across India.
Personal Life and Family
Born on November 9, 1956, in Punjab, Pankaj Dheer hailed from a film-oriented family. His father, C.L. Dheer, was a noted filmmaker, while his brother, Satluj Dheer, is a film producer. He is survived by his wife, Anita Dheer, and their son, actor Nikitin Dheer, who is known for roles in Chennai Express and Shershaah. Hours before the news of his passing, Nikitin shared a poignant message on social media:
“Whatever comes, let it come. Whatever stays, let it stay. Whatever goes, let it go… He’ll take care!”
— Nikitin Dheer, via Instagram
The Battle Against Cancer
As reported by Moneycontrol (source), Dheer had been undergoing extensive treatment for cancer, which had relapsed after initial recovery. His health reportedly declined over the past few months, and he was frequently admitted to hospital. Medical experts noted that cancer recurrence remains one of the most difficult challenges in oncology care.
Tributes from colleagues and friends flooded social media. Actress Hema Malini expressed her condolences, calling him a “dear friend and a pillar of strength during our shoots.” Fellow actor Feroz Khan, who starred alongside Dheer in Mahabharat, shared an emotional video montage, writing, “Will miss you always.” (source)
Remembering an Era
Pankaj Dheer’s career is often regarded as symbolic of Indian television’s golden age. His portrayal of Karna became so iconic that it shaped the visual identity of the mythological hero for generations. According to The Times of India (source), many of his co-stars recalled his humility, professionalism, and deep faith, qualities that made him beloved both on and off screen.
In an interview years earlier, Dheer once recalled how his iconic role almost slipped away because of a moustache:
“I was initially rejected because they thought I looked too mature. But later, they said my look fit perfectly for Karna. That moustache, I guess, decided my destiny.”
— Pankaj Dheer, in conversation with Mathrubhumi (source)
Legacy and Impact
Pankaj Dheer’s contributions went beyond performance; he was a mentor, leader, and advocate for ethical practices in entertainment. His passing leaves a void in Indian television that few can fill. Colleagues have called him “a gentleman artist” and “a guardian of classic television acting.”
Fans continue to share clips and tributes online, celebrating the actor whose portrayal of Karna remains immortal in Indian television history. As the industry bids farewell, his life stands as a testament to artistry, discipline, and dignity.