Pankaj Dheer, the veteran Indian actor best known for his iconic portrayal of Karna in B.R. Chopra's Mahabharat, has passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 68. He succumbed to cancer after battling the disease for some time. Dheer's death was confirmed by the Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA), marking the loss of a respected figure in the Indian film and television industry. His cremation was held on the same day in Mumbai.
Born on November 9, 1956, Pankaj Dheer began his acting career in the 1980s. He appeared in minor roles in films such as Poonam (1981), Sookha, Meraa Suhaag, Randam Varavu, and Jeevan Ek Sanghursh. However, it was his role as Karna in the 1988 television series Mahabharat that catapulted him to national fame. His powerful portrayal of the loyal, proud, and conflicted warrior resonated deeply with audiences, making him a household name. Such was the impact of his performance that his images were used in school textbooks, and statues modeled after his Karna are worshipped in some parts of India.
Following the success of Mahabharat, Dheer became a sought-after actor in both film and television. He starred in numerous popular TV shows, including Chandrakanta, where he played King Shivdutt, The Great Maratha, Yug, Zee Horror Show, Kanoon, and Badho Bahu. His role as King Shivdutt in Chandrakanta was also notable, portraying another memorable anti-hero. He also appeared in Bollywood films such as Sanam Bewafa, Sadak, Soldier, Baadshah, Andaaz, and Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge.
Beyond acting, Pankaj Dheer was also an entrepreneur. In 2006, he co-founded Visage Studioz, a shooting studio in Mumbai, with his brother Satluj Dheer. In 2010, he established the Abbhinnay Acting Academy, with Gufi Paintal, his co-star from Mahabharat, serving as the faculty head.
Pankaj Dheer's last television stint was in Dhruv Tara – Samay Sadi Se Pare (2024). He also appeared in the 2019 web series Poison.
Pankaj Dheer is survived by his son, Nikitin Dheer, who is also an actor, known for his roles in films like Chennai Express, Jodhaa Akbar, and Sooryavanshi, and his daughter-in-law, actress Kratika Sengar.
The news of Pankaj Dheer's passing has been met with an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues alike. His contribution to Indian television and cinema will be remembered for years to come.
