Mahabharat Star Pankaj Dheer Passes Away at 68 After Cancer Battle
Mumbai, October 15, 2025 — Veteran Indian television and film actor Pankaj Dheer passed away today at the age of 68 after a prolonged battle with cancer. His demise has sent shockwaves through the entertainment fraternity and among millions of fans who fondly remember him as Karna from B. R. Chopra’s legendary Mahabharat.
Early Life & Entry into Acting
Pankaj Dheer was born on November 9, 1956, in Punjab, India. He began his acting career in television and films in the 1980s, taking on smaller roles initially before landing the part that would define his legacy.
Iconic Role as Karna in Mahabharat
His breakthrough came in 1988 when he was cast as Karna in B R Chopra’s adaptation of Mahabharat. The show elevated him to national fame; over time, his assocation with the character became so strong that his image is often used in textbooks or references to Karna. In interviews, he stated he declined offers to play Karna again in remakes, wanting to preserve his fans’ emotional connection to that one portrayal.
Career Beyond Mahabharat
While Karna remained his signature role, Dheer’s acting résumé spans a variety of genres. On television, he appeared in series such as Chandrakanta, Zee Horror Show, Badho Bahu, Devon Ke Dev…Mahadev, Sasural Simar Ka, Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat, and more. In cinema, he had supporting roles in films like Sadak, Soldier, Baadshah, Sanam Bewafa, Andaz, Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge, Zameen, among others.
He also co-founded a shooting studio in Mumbai called Visage Studioz (with his brother Satluj Dheer) and established an acting school, Abbhinnay Acting Academy, to nurture new talent.
Health Struggles & Final Days
Pankaj Dheer had been battling cancer for some time. Reports suggest that the disease had relapsed in recent months, after earlier periods of treatment and hospitalization. He had undergone major surgery in the recent past but continued to slip in health. According to close sources and industry peers, his condition deteriorated over the last few days.
The Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) released a statement confirming his death:
“With profound grief and deep sorrow, we inform you of the passing away 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.”
Cremation & Tributes
His cremation was scheduled for later the same day in Vile Parle (West), Mumbai, at a ground Next to Pawan Hans.
The news triggered an outpouring of condolences from colleagues, fans, and fellow actors. Co-star Arjun Feroz Khan (who played Arjuna in Mahabharat) posted a touching tribute on Instagram. Ashoke Pandit, filmmaker and friend, confirmed the cause of death and mourned the loss, calling it a huge blow to the industry.
Personal Life & Legacy
Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife Anita Dheer, a noted costume designer, and their son Nikitin Dheer, who is also an actor. Nikitin is married to actor Kratika Sengar.
His influence on Indian television—especially mythological and historical dramas—remains profound. For many, his Karna is irrevocably etched into memory.
