💔 Veteran Actor Pankaj Dheer, Iconic Karna of Mahabharat, Passes Away After Cancer Battle
🌅 A Legendary Journey Comes to an End
Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for portraying the valiant Karna in B.R. Chopra’s iconic TV series Mahabharat, passed away on October 15, 2025, after a prolonged battle with cancer. Despite undergoing major surgery and fighting the disease bravely, his condition relapsed a few months ago, leaving him critically unwell.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed by his close friend, colleague, and CINTAA member Amit Behl, who shared the actor’s passing with India Today.
🕊️ Official Confirmation from CINTAA
The Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) issued an official statement expressing deep sorrow over the demise of their former General Secretary and Chairman:
“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.”
🎭 Beyond Mahabharat: A Versatile Career
While Mahabharat made him a household name, Pankaj Dheer’s career spanned several decades across film and television.
He starred in popular movies like Sanam Bewafa, Baadshah, and appeared in beloved TV shows including Chandrakanta and Sasural Simar Ka.
As a filmmaker, he directed My Father Godfather and founded the Abhinay Acting Academy, nurturing the next generation of performers.
🛕 The Eternal Karna: Worshipped by Fans
In an interview, Dheer once revealed how deeply audiences connected with his portrayal of Karna — to the extent that temples were built in his honor.
“I have two temples where daily puja is performed — one in Karnal and another in Bastar. There’s an eight-feet statue of me as Karna. People worship me there. This shows how they’ve accepted me as Karna,” he had shared proudly.
He also mentioned that in some school textbooks, his picture is used as the visual reference for the great warrior Karna — a testament to his cultural legacy.
💖 Remembering the Man Behind the Legend
Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife, Anita Dheer, and son, actor Nikitin Dheer, known for his roles in films like Chennai Express and Shershaah.
With his commanding presence, noble screen persona, and decades of contribution to Indian entertainment, Pankaj Dheer leaves behind a legacy that will forever live in the hearts of millions.
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