Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, best known as Karna from BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 68.
He had been fighting cancer for a long time. The disease returned a few months ago, even after he went through a major surgery.
Actor and CINTAA member Amit Behl confirmed the sad news to India Today.
The Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) issued a statement:
“With deep sorrow, we announce the passing of our former Chairman and CINTAA’s ex-General Secretary, Shri Pankaj Dheer ji, on October 15, 2025. The cremation will be held at 4:30 pm, near Pawan Hans, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai.”
A Beloved Face on Screen
Pankaj Dheer became a household name through Mahabharat. His strong and calm portrayal of Karna left a deep mark on viewers.
He also appeared in several popular films like Sanam Bewafa, Baadshah, and TV shows such as Chandrakanta and Sasural Simar Ka.
Apart from acting, he also directed the film My Father Godfather and founded the Abhinay Acting Academy to train new artists.
Loved and Remembered as Karna
In an old interview, Dheer shared how people still saw him as Karna. He said that statues and temples were built in his honor — one in Karnal and another in Bastar.
He once said,
“People love me as Karna. Even school books show my photo when they talk about him. That love keeps me alive in their hearts.”
He added that he was deeply touched to be worshipped at the Karna Mandir, where daily prayers are held before his statue.
Family and Legacy
Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife Anita Dheer and son Nikitin Dheer, who is also an actor.
Fans and fellow artists remember him as a kind soul and a true artist who gave life to one of television’s most powerful roles.
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