Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, who etched his name in television history as Karna in Mahabharat (1988), has sadly passed away. He was 68. The cremation was done in Mumbai. The news has left the entertainment industry and fans across the country in deep sorrow. Actor Amit Behl, a close friend of Pankaj Dheer for over three decades, confirmed the news to ANI. He called it “shocking and really sad.”
Amit shared, “He was ailing about three years ago but had recovered. He was back to work and even sounded fine when we spoke a few months ago. It’s a shock. He had lost weight, was working again — this is truly heartbreaking.”
Pankaj Dheer’s Cause Of Death: After A Brave Battle
Producer Ashoke Pandit revealed that Pankaj Dheer passed away after battling cancer for several months. He had been in and out of the hospital in recent times. Despite his illness, he continued to meet friends and stay connected to his craft till the very end.
He is survived by his wife Anita Dheer and son Nikitin Dheer, who has followed his father’s footsteps into acting.
The Man Who Immortalized Karna
Pankaj Dheer’s portrayal of Karna in Mahabharat remains one of Indian television’s most unforgettable performances. His calm yet powerful demeanor brought depth and dignity to the role.
His expressive eyes, majestic screen presence, and impeccable dialogue delivery made viewers empathize with Karna’s journey — a warrior known for loyalty, pride, and sacrifice.
Even decades later, audiences remember his iconic lines and magnetic presence. For many, Pankaj Dheer was not just playing Karna — he was Karna.
A Journey From Humble Beginnings
Before fame found him, Pankaj Dheer’s acting career had modest beginnings. He began with the 1981 film Poonam, which was not successful. Undeterred, he kept going, appearing in lesser-known films like Sookha, Meraa Suhaag, and Jeevan Ek Sanghursh.
Those early struggles shaped him as an artist. They helped him polish his craft, preparing him for the moment that would define his legacy, the Mahabharat.
From Karna To King Shiv Dutt — The Versatile Performer
After Mahabharat, Dheer became a familiar face on television. He starred as King Shiv Dutt in Chandrakanta, another fan-favorite role. He also appeared in shows like Zee Horror Show, Kanoon, Sasural Simar Ka, Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat, Devon Ke Dev… Mahadev and Badho Bahu.
In films, his strong on-screen persona continued to shine. He appeared in memorable titles like Soldier, Andaaz, Baadshah, Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge, Sadak, and Sanam Bewafa.
His performances always carried sincerity — whether it was a noble king or a sharp villain, Pankaj Dheer brought authenticity to every role.
A Family Of Artists
His son Nikitin Dheer has earned recognition for his roles in blockbuster films like Chennai Express, Jodhaa Akbar, and Sooryavanshi. Nikitin’s wife, actress Kratika Sengar, is also a popular television face, loved for her performance in Ek Veer Stree Ki Kahaani – Jhansi Ki Rani.
Just hours before his father’s passing, Nikitin shared a cryptic yet deeply emotional post on Instagram. Alongside an image of Lord Shiva, he wrote,
“Whatever comes, let it come. Whatever stays, let it stay. Whatever goes, let it go. As a Shiva Bhakt, say ‘Shivarpanam’ and move on! He’ll take care.”
Fans later realized the emotional weight behind those words — a son’s spiritual farewell to his father.
The Final Glimpse: A Nostalgic Reunion
Pankaj Dheer was last seen in filmmaker Farah Khan’s vlog, where he reunited with his Mahabharat co-stars Puneet Issar (Duryodhan) and Feroz Khan (Arjun). The trio reminisced about their old days, sharing laughter, stories, and memories that touched fans’ hearts.
For many, that video now stands as a beautiful reminder — a last glimpse of a man whose charm and humility never faded.
A Timeless Legacy
Pankaj Dheer was more than just an actor; he was an emotion for millions who grew up watching Mahabharat. His portrayal of Karna taught generations about dignity, selflessness, and inner strength.
As the industry bids him farewell, his legacy will continue to inspire young actors and storytellers. The man who played Karna will forever be remembered as one of television’s greatest heroes, noble, graceful, and unforgettable.
May his soul rest in peace.
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