Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for portraying Karna in B. R. Chopra’s epic TV serial Mahabharat, passed away on 15 October 2025 after a long battle with cancer. His death marks the end of an era in Indian television history. Dheer was 68 years old and left behind an inspiring legacy of powerful performances and humility that won millions of hearts.This article explores his biography, family background, acting career, struggles, achievements, and the emotional reactions following his demise.
Early Life and Background
Pankaj Dheer was born on 9 November 1956 in Punjab, India, into a family with film industry connections. His father, C. L. Dheer, was a noted filmmaker. Though Pankaj’s early ambition was to work behind the camera, destiny had other plans.
In his youth, Dheer’s family faced severe financial difficulties after a business setback. He began working at a young age to support them. In one of his interviews, actor Mukesh Khanna revealed that Pankaj earned only ₹300 per month before his big break in acting. Despite hardships, his dedication and passion for cinema never wavered.
He completed his education in Mumbai — reportedly from St. Theresa’s High School and MMK College — before stepping into the entertainment industry.
Career Beginnings
Pankaj Dheer made his acting debut in the early 1980s with small roles in Hindi films. One of his earliest movies was Sookha (1983). Over time, he appeared in several Bollywood films such as:
1.Sadak (1991)
2.Baadshah (1999)
3.Soldier (1998)
4.Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge (2002)
5.Andaaz (2003)
6.Taarzan: The Wonder Car (2004)
7.Zameen (2003)*
While he played many supporting characters in films, his real fame came from television — where his commanding screen presence and deep voice became his signature.
Rise to Fame: The Iconic Karna of Mahabharat
Pankaj Dheer’s life changed forever when he was cast as Karna in B. R. Chopra’s Mahabharat (1988–1990). His performance was so powerful that viewers began associating the mythological character with his real face.
Interestingly, Pankaj was initially offered the role of Arjun, but he declined to shave his moustache for a disguise sequence. Later, destiny brought him back as Karna, a role that immortalized him.
His intense expressions, noble dialogue delivery, and strong physique made him one of the most admired actors on Indian television. Even decades later, people still refer to him as “TV’s Karna.”
In fact, some temples and statues in India depict Karna with Dheer’s face — a rare honor for a television actor.
Other Television Work
After Mahabharat, Dheer appeared in several hit TV serials that showcased his versatility:
1.Chandrakanta
2.The Great Maratha
3.Zee Horror Show
4.Badho Bahu
5Yug
6.Kanoon
He also worked as a director and producer, creating shows and mentoring young talent. In 2014, he directed a feature film titled My Father Godfather, further showcasing his creativity behind the camera.
Personal Life and Family
Pankaj Dheer married Anita Dheer in 1979. She is known for her work in the fashion industry. The couple had two children — Nikitin Dheer and Nitika Dheer.
His son Nikitin Dheer followed in his footsteps and became a successful actor, appearing in films like Chennai Express, Dabangg 2, Shershaah, and more. Nikitin is married to popular TV actress Kratika Sengar.
The Dheer family is deeply respected in the film and TV community for their humility and professionalism.
Death News: Pankaj Dheer Passes Away in 2025
On 15 October 2025, the Indian entertainment industry woke up to heartbreaking news — Pankaj Dheer passed away in Mumbai after a long fight with cancer.
According to reports, he had undergone treatment and major surgery earlier, but the disease relapsed. His health deteriorated rapidly in the months leading to his death.
He breathed his last surrounded by family members. The cremation took place the same evening at Pawan Hans Crematorium, Vile Parle (West), Mumbai), attended by several celebrities and co-actors from the Mahabharat era.
The CINTAA (Cine & TV Artistes’ Association) confirmed the news officially, paying tribute to his long years of service as its former chairman and general secretary.
Industry Reactions and Tributes
Following his death, social media was flooded with tributes:
Puneet Issar (Duryodhan from Mahabharat) said, “I lost my brother today. Pankaj was strength, loyalty, and friendship personified.”
Hema Malini called him “a dear friend and a thorough gentleman.”
Riteish Deshmukh wrote, “No one appeared more powerful than you on the battlefield, Karna.”
Veteran actor Mukesh Khanna recalled their early struggles and called Dheer a symbol of perseverance.
Fans across generations remembered his dialogues from Mahabharat and shared nostalgic photos from the late 1980s show that defined Indian mythological television.
Legacy and Contribution
Pankaj Dheer’s legacy is unmatched. His role as Karna is considered one of the finest portrayals of a mythological hero in Indian television history. His face became the visual representation of Karna for an entire generation.
He was also known for mentoring young actors through his acting school Abbhinnay Acting Academy, where late actor Gufi Paintal (Shakuni) also served as a mentor.
Through decades of work — across television, films, and direction — Dheer proved that true artistry is about dedication and character, not fame alone.
Even after his death, reruns of Mahabharat and his other shows continue to inspire viewers and remind them of his magnetic screen presence.
Pankaj Dheer’s journey — from humble beginnings to becoming an immortal figure in Indian television — is truly inspiring. His discipline, humility, and passion for acting made him a legend.
As India mourns the loss of its beloved “Karna,” his dialogues and performances continue to echo through time. Pankaj Dheer may have left this world, but his legacy will live forever in the hearts of millions of fans who grew up admiring his strength and grace.
Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, famous as Karna from Mahabharat, passed away on 15 October 2025 after a long battle with cancer. Read his full biography, career highlights, family details, and legacy in this detailed SEO-friendly article.
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