veteran actor Pankaj Dheerwho won millions of hearts as Karna in B. R. Chopra’s epic series ‘Mahabharat’, has passed away on Wednesday after a long battle with cancer. He was 68. The cremation will be held later in the day.The news of Pankaj Dheer’s demise was confirmed by actor Amit Behl to ANI. Behl, who had known Pankaj for over three decades, expressed his grief and shared fond memories of his longtime friend, calling the news “shocking” and “really sad”. He recalled that Pankaj had been unwell a few years ago but had made a recovery and returned to work.
Behl said, “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. He was ailing, but he had recovered, lost weight, and was working, you know, in a serial or something else. I spoke to him about three or four months ago, and he was sounding fine. So it’s quite a shock to me. It’s really sad.”
Pankaj Dheer remembered for iconic role as Karna
Pankaj Dheer became a household name with his powerful performance as Karna in ‘Mahabharat’ (1988). His calm yet commanding presence made the warrior prince one of the most loved and respected characters in Indian television history. His look, dialogue delivery, and strong screen presence turned him into a star overnight.
Speaking about his demise, producer and friend Ashoke Pandit told PTI, “He passed away due to cancer this morning. He had been in and out of hospital in the past months.” The cremation was scheduled to take place later in the day.He is survived by his wife Anita Dheer and son Nicotin longwho has followed in his footsteps as an actor.
Actor’s early years marked by humble beginnings
Pankaj Dheer began his acting journey with the 1981 film ‘Poonam’, which unfortunately did not do well at the box office. Despite the setback, he continued to pursue acting and appeared in several lesser-known films like ‘Sookha’, ‘Meraa Suhaag’, ‘Randam Varavu’, and ‘Jeevan Ek Sanghursh’.While many of these early projects failed to leave a mark, they helped him polish his craft and prepare for the breakthrough role that would later define his career.
‘Mahabharat’ became the biggest turning point
In 1988, Dheer’s life changed when he was cast as Suryaputra Karna in ‘Mahabharat’. His tall frame, expressive eyes, and intense performance made him the perfect fit for the role. His portrayal of Karna’s loyalty, pride, and pain touched audiences deeply.The success of ‘Mahabharat’ made Pankaj Dheer a household name across India. His dialogues and expressions are still remembered fondly by fans who grew up watching the show.
Pankaj Long Found FUND FAMEE TELEVIES
After ‘Mahabharat’, Dheer became one of the most sought-after actors in both film and television. He starred in popular TV shows like ‘Chandrakanta’, where he played King Shiv Dutt, and appeared in ‘Zee Horror Show’ and ‘Kanoon’.He also enjoyed success in films such as ‘Soldier’, ‘Andaaz’, ‘Baadshah’, and ‘Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge’. His performances in these movies proved his versatility and helped him earn respect as a dependable supporting actor. He went on to appear in well-loved shows like ‘Sanam Bewafa’, ‘Sadak’, ‘Chandrakanta’, ‘Sasural Simar Ka’, ‘Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat’, ‘Devon Ke Dev… Mahadev’ and ‘Badho Bahu’.
About Panaj tall for a long Nikin
Pankaj Dheer’s Son Niktin is known for his roles in films like ‘Jodhaa Akbar’, and ‘Sooryavanshi’ His Daughter-in-Law, Actress Kratika Sengaris also well known for her television work, especially ‘Ek Veer Stree Ki Kahaani-Jhansi Ki Rani’. Hours before father’s demise on October 15, Pankaj Dheer’s son, Nikitin Dheer, shared a thoughtful and cryptic Instagram post, reflecting on life and the importance of letting go. The post, rooted in his family’s devotion to Lord Shiva, struck a spiritual chord with fans. Nikitin shared a picture of Lord Shiva accompanied by a meaningful message, writing, “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.”Pankaj Dheer was last seen in Farah Khan’s vlog, accompanied by his two close friends and on-screen brothers, Puneet Issar and Feroz Khan. In B.R. Chopra’s iconic series, Isshar had portrayed Duryodhan, while Feroz Khan played Arjun. The reunion offered fans a nostalgic glimpse of the trio, celebrating their bond both on-screen and off-screen, highlighting the enduring legacy of ‘Mahabharat’.
