The Indian entertainment industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, who passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 68 after a prolonged battle with cancer. Best known for his unforgettable portrayal of Karna in BR Chopra's epic television series Mahabharat (1988), Dheer's death has left millions of fans heartbroken across the country.
Pankaj Dheer as the legendary Karna in BR Chopra's iconic Mahabharat series
The Cine and TV Artistes' Association (CINTAA) confirmed the devastating news in an official statement: "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". His cremation was held on the same day at 4:30 PM next to Pawan Hans, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai.
The Cancer Battle That Took a Tragic Turn
Pankaj Dheer had been fighting cancer for several years, and according to close friend and actor Amit Behl, he had actually recovered from the disease about three years ago and returned to work. Behl told ANI, "He was ailing about three years ago, but he had recovered. He was back to work. I spoke to him about four months ago, and he was sounding fine. But this is shocking, really shocking for all of us".
However, the cancer relapsed in recent months, leading to major surgery and a deterioration in his health. Producer and friend Ashoke Pandit confirmed to PTI, "He passed away due to cancer this morning. He had been in and out of hospital in the past months". While the specific type of cancer has not been publicly disclosed, his passing highlights the harsh reality of cancer recurrence—a phenomenon where cancer cells remain dormant before becoming active again.
Nikitin Dheer's Cryptic Post Hours Before Father's Death
In a moment that has left fans reeling, Pankaj's son Nikitin Dheer shared a cryptic and deeply spiritual Instagram post just hours before his father's passing. The post featured an image of Lord Shiva with a profound message:
"Whatever comes, Let it come. Whatever stays, Let it stay. Whatever goes, Let it go. As a Shiva Bhakt, say 'Shivarpanam' and move on! He'll take care!" - very hard to do.
The timing of the post has struck an emotional chord with fans, many of whom wonder if Nikitin sensed what was coming. The Dheer family are devoted followers of Lord Shiva, and this spiritual reflection on letting go now carries a heartbreaking significance.
The Iconic Role That Made Him Immortal
Pankaj Dheer became a household name overnight with his powerful performance as Suryaputra Karna in BR Chopra's Mahabharat, which aired from 1988 to 1990. His tall frame, expressive eyes, and intense portrayal of Karna—often regarded as the most tragic character in the epic—made him the perfect fit for the role.
His portrayal was so impactful that even history textbooks used in schools featured his picture when referencing Karna. In a 2020 interview with SCREEN, Dheer reflected on this unique honor: "Even in history books used in schools, if they have a reference to Karna, they use my picture there. I have also been to the temples built for me. There is an eight-feet tall statue of mine, and people come there and worship it".
Interestingly, Dheer was originally cast as Arjuna in Mahabharat, but lost the role due to an unusual reason—his refusal to shave his moustache to play Brihannala, Arjuna's eunuch disguise during exile. Dheer later called this his "big stupidity," but fate intervened, landing him the role that would define his career.
Over the years, Dheer was offered roles in various remakes of Mahabharat, but he consistently declined them all. "I have played Karna, and that is it for me. It is not about money. I can make money otherwise. But I don't want to confuse my fans. It won't be justice to their love," he explained.
Beyond Mahabharat: A Versatile Career
While Mahabharat made him legendary, Pankaj Dheer's acting career spanned both television and film. He appeared in popular TV shows like Chandrakanta (where he played King Shiv Dutt), Zee Horror Show, Kanoon, Sasural Simar Ka, Devon Ke Dev… Mahadev, and Badho Bahu.
In Bollywood, Dheer appeared in memorable supporting roles in films such as:
Soldier (1998) - Super Hit
Baadshah (1999) starring Shah Rukh Khan
Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge (2002) with Salman Khan
Andaaz (2003)
Zameen (2003) with Ajay Devgn
Sadak (1991)
His career began in 1981 with the film Poonam, which unfortunately didn't succeed at the box office. However, he persevered and continued to polish his craft through various projects before landing his breakthrough role in Mahabharat.
Pankaj Dheer's Last Public Appearance
Pankaj Dheer was last seen publicly in choreographer Farah Khan's vlog, alongside his close friends and on-screen brothers Puneet Issar (who played Duryodhana) and Feroz Khan (who played Arjuna) in Mahabharat. The reunion offered fans a nostalgic glimpse of the trio celebrating their enduring bond both on-screen and off-screen.
In the vlog, the friends reminisced about old times, and Pankaj revealed how Puneet Issar used to eat 50-60 puris in one sitting during the shooting days. The camaraderie between the three actors, even decades after Mahabharat, was evident and touching. Pankaj had to leave the gathering early to attend lunch at his brother's house, though he expressed a desire to taste Puneet's cooking.
The Dheer Family Legacy
Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife Anita Dheer, a renowned Bollywood costume designer known for her work in films like Boxer (1984), Ikke Pe Ikka (1994), and Victoria No. 203: Diamonds Are Forever (2007). The couple married on October 19, 1976, and were just days away from celebrating their 49th wedding anniversary when Pankaj passed away.
His son Nikitin Dheer has followed in his father's footsteps and established himself as a successful actor in his own right. Born on March 17, 1980, Nikitin made his acting debut in 2008 with Ashutosh Gowariker's Jodhaa Akbar, where he played Sharifuddin Hussain alongside Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.
Nikitin is best known for his role as Thangaballi in Shah Rukh Khan and Deepika Padukone's blockbuster Chennai Express (2013). He has also appeared in notable films like Ready (2011), Dabangg 2 (2012), Kanche (2015), Shershaah (2021), and Sooryavanshi (2021).
The Love Story Orchestrated by Pankaj
In a heartwarming twist, it was actually Pankaj Dheer who played matchmaker for his son Nikitin's marriage to actress Kratika Sengar, known for her role as Rani Lakshmibai in Ek Veer Stree Ki Kahaani – Jhansi Ki Rani.
Kratika came in for an audition for Pankaj's directorial debut, My Father Godfather. Pankaj was so impressed that he not only chose her for the lead role but also decided she would be the perfect life partner for Nikitin. He discussed the matter with Kratika and then went to meet her parents, setting up the arranged marriage.
Kratika recalled to Pinkvilla, "I bonded well with Pankaj Uncle and Nikitin and gradually, Nikitin and I started liking each other". Nikitin added, "Kratika is a family-oriented girl who has everything I wanted in a life partner: honesty, patience, and a strong personality".
The couple got engaged in April 2014 and tied the knot on September 3, 2014, in a ceremony attended by numerous Bollywood celebrities. They welcomed their daughter Devika Dheer on May 12, 2022.
Industry Mourns the Loss
The entertainment industry came together to pay tribute to the legendary actor. Salman Khan, who worked with Pankaj in Sanam Bewafa and Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge, attended the funeral to pay his final respects, embracing Nikitin and the grieving family.
Firoz Khan (Arjuna from Mahabharat) shared a touching message on Instagram: "Gentleman!!! Bids goodbye. Will miss you PD. Stay blessed".
Puneet Issar (Duryodhana) said, "Karna and Duryodhan were brothers, and I could play that part with him so naturally because I had known him even before we did Mahabharat. I am heartbroken, and I will always miss him".
Gajendra Chauhan (Yudhisthir) remembered him fondly: "Pankaj was not the serious guy he looked like on screen. He was very jovial, always smiling and a wonderful host. We used to meet every fortnight at someone's home, and Pankaj would keep everyone laughing".
Understanding Cancer Relapse: A Critical Health Conversation
Pankaj Dheer's death has reignited an important conversation about cancer relapse—when cancer returns after a period of remission. According to medical experts, cancer recurrence is more common than many realize.
Dr. Arun Goel, a surgical oncologist, told Moneycontrol, "Microscopic cancer cells can remain hidden despite successful treatment. Long-term follow-up and careful monitoring are essential to catch relapse early". He emphasized that a healthy lifestyle and emotional support are key to managing relapse risk.
Cancer relapse occurs when hidden cancer cells survive initial treatment and later "wake up," sometimes becoming more aggressive and resistant to previous treatments. The American Cancer Society notes that these cells can lie dormant, evading detection by the immune system and therapies for years.
A Legacy That Will Never Fade
Pankaj Dheer's contribution to Indian television cannot be overstated. His portrayal of Karna in Mahabharat remains one of the most iconic performances in Indian television history. His calm yet commanding presence, powerful dialogue delivery, and ability to convey Karna's loyalty, pride, and pain touched audiences deeply.
Beyond his acting prowess, Pankaj served as a mentor to numerous aspiring actors and actively supported the welfare of artists through his work with CINTAA, where he served as Chairman of the Trust and former Hon. General Secretary.
His journey from his 1981 debut in Poonam to becoming the face of one of India's most beloved mythological characters is a testament to his talent, perseverance, and dedication to his craft. Even when early films didn't succeed, he continued to pursue acting, eventually finding the role that would make him immortal in the hearts of millions.
As fans across India mourn the loss of their beloved Karna, Pankaj Dheer's legacy lives on—not just through his iconic performances, but through his son Nikitin, his beloved granddaughter Devika, and the countless lives he touched throughout his remarkable 44-year career.
Rest in peace, Pankaj Dheer. Your portrayal of Karna will continue to inspire generations, and your memory will forever remain etched in the golden pages of Indian television history.
