The Indian television and film industry has lost one of its beloved stalwarts. Pankaj Dheer, best known for immortalising the role of Karna in BR Chopra’s legendary television series Mahabharat, passed away on Tuesday following a prolonged battle with cancer.
The news was confirmed by his close friend and fellow actor Amit Behl, a senior member of the Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA).
“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, next to Pawan Hans, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai,” CINTAA, in an official statement.
Pankaj Dheer dies after cancer battle
Sources close to the actor revealed that Pankaj Dheer had been quietly battling cancer for some time. While initial treatments offered hope, the disease reportedly returned a few months ago in a more aggressive form.
Despite undergoing a major surgery recently, his condition deteriorated rapidly. The industry and fans alike have been left shocked.
The sudden news has triggered an outpouring of tributes across social media and news channels, with many remembering the grace and strength he brought both to screen and to life.
The Man Behind the Iconic Karna
Pankaj Dheer’s portrayal of Karna wasn’t just a performance; it was history in the making. His powerful screen presence in Mahabharat left a mark that few actors can dream of achieving. The character became so deeply etched in public memory that many began to associate Dheer himself with the legendary warrior.
“People have loved me and adored me over the years. Even in the history books of schools, if they have a reference to Karna, they have my picture there.
So, as long as these books are printed in school, I will always be their reference as Karna,” Pankaj Dheer, in a previous interview.
In a heartfelt reflection, Dheer had shared stories of temples in Karnal and Bastar, where statues of him as Karna are worshipped daily.
“I also have two temples where there is Puja done every day. I am worshipped there in Karna Mandir. I have been to those temples… This goes to show that they have accepted me as Karna. This becomes very difficult for others to play that role again,” Pankaj Dheer.
A Versatile Career Beyond Mahabharat
While Karna remained his most iconic role, Pankaj Dheer had a diverse and impressive body of work. He appeared in popular films like Sanam Bewafa, Baadshah, and left his mark in television shows such as Chandrakanta and Sasural Simar Ka.
He also stepped behind the camera, directing My Father Godfather, a film that explored the struggles of aspiring actors.
Passionate about nurturing new talent, Dheer founded the Abhinay Acting Academy, which has trained many emerging artists in the Indian entertainment industry.
A Quiet Legacy of Strength and Simplicity
Behind the screen persona was a grounded individual. Known for his warm demeanour and dedication to the craft, Dheer earned respect across generations of actors. He maintained a relatively low profile off-screen, focusing more on his work than publicity.
Pankaj Dheer’s portrayal of Karna wasn’t just acting; it was an embodiment. His face is now the reference for Karna in school textbooks, and his legacy lives on in temples where he’s worshipped. Few actors get such a tribute in life and in death.
Survived by His Family
Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife, Anita Dheer, and son, Nikitin Dheer, who is also an established actor in the Indian film industry.
As the family mourns privately, condolences continue to pour in from fans, fellow actors, and admirers across the country.
The cremation ceremony took place at 4:30 pm in Vile Parle (West), Mumbai, near Pawan Hans, with close friends and industry colleagues in attendance.
Pankaj Dheer leaves behind a legacy not just in film and television, but in the hearts of millions who saw him as more than an actor as Karna, the great warrior who stood for loyalty, courage, and honour.
