The entertainment industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for his iconic portrayal of Karna in the television series "Mahabharat". Dheer passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 68, after a prolonged battle with cancer. His death has cast a shadow of grief over his family, including his son, actor Nikitin Dheer, and daughter-in-law, actress Kratika Sengar.
Kratika Sengar, known for her roles in television dramas, shared a heartfelt message on social media, expressing the profound sense of loss felt by the family, especially during the recent Diwali celebrations. "Only when you lose someone you love, you realise how heavy the festivals can feel," she wrote, accompanied by a heartbroken emoji, alongside a picture of a diya lit on Diwali. Her words resonated with many, capturing the bittersweet emotions of celebrating festivities while grieving the absence of a loved one.
Pankaj Dheer's career spanned over four decades, leaving an indelible mark on both television and film. He became a household name in the late 1980s and 90s for his powerful portrayal of Karna in "Mahabharat". His commanding screen presence and unforgettable performance made him synonymous with the character, with fans continuing to associate him with Karna even decades later. Beyond "Mahabharat," Dheer starred in other popular television shows such as "Chandrakanta," "The Great Maratha," "Yug," and "Badho Bahu". He also appeared in numerous Bollywood films, including "Sadak," "Soldier," and "Baadshah," often in memorable supporting roles.
Beyond acting, Dheer was also a creative entrepreneur. In 2006, he co-founded Visage Studioz, a shooting studio in Mumbai, with his brother Satluj Dheer. In 2010, he launched the Abbhinnay Acting Academy, with fellow "Mahabharat" actor Gufi Paintal as the faculty head, aiming to mentor the next generation of performers.
Nikitin Dheer, Pankaj Dheer's son, has also established himself as an actor in Bollywood, with roles in films like "Chennai Express" and "Shershaah". Hours before his father's death, Nikitin shared a cryptic Instagram post reflecting on life and the importance of letting go, which resonated with his fans.
The news of Pankaj Dheer's death was confirmed by actor Amit Behl. Tributes have poured in from industry colleagues and fans alike, recognizing his immense contribution to Indian television and cinema. Producer and friend Ashoke Pandit noted that Dheer had been in and out of the hospital in recent months. The cremation took place at Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle West, Mumbai, with several actors, including Salman Khan and Sidharth Malhotra, paying their last respects.
Pankaj Dheer's legacy extends beyond his performances. His portrayal of Karna was so impactful that his images were used in school textbooks to depict the mythological warrior. In some parts of India, statues modeled after Dheer's Karna are worshipped, a rare honor for a television actor. His contributions to the entertainment industry and his influence on popular culture will be fondly remembered.
