Actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for his iconic role as Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, passed away on October 15 after a prolonged battle with cancer. Read on to know more.
Actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for his role as Karna in the Mahabharata, passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 68. He had been battling cancer for a long time. According to a DNA report, a close family member confirmed the news, saying, “Yes, it’s true. He had been battling cancer for many years.” CINTAA (Cine and TV Artistes Association) also issued an official statement confirming his death. The statement said, “With profound grief and deep sorrow, we inform you of the passing away 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,” The news sent shockwaves throughout the film and TV industry.
All about Pankay Dheer
Pankaj Dheer began his career in 1983 with the film Sukh. However, he gained real recognition with B.R. Chopra’s role as Karna in the TV show Mahabharata won the hearts of audiences with his deep voice, impressive dialogue, and powerful performance. Even during the show’s reruns, people continued to praise his performance. He subsequently appeared in several films, including Saugandh, Sanam Bewafa, Sadak, Badshah, Mr. Bond, and Aashant. He also made strong presence in TV serials, including Kanoon, Chandrakanta, Harishchandra, Yug and Sasural Simar Ka.
Who is Kratika Sengar?
Pankaj Dheer’s family is also deeply connected to the film industry. His father, C.L. Dheer was a renowned film director, while his brother Satluj Dheer, is a film producer. His wife, Anita Dheer has also worked in both films and television. His son, Nikitin Dheer is a well-known name in Bollywood having played villains in films like Chennai Express, Dabangg 2, and Ready. His daughter-in-law, Kratika Sengar is a popular TV actress, having made her mark in serials like Jhansi Ki Rani and Kasam Tere Pyar Ki. His daughter, Nikita Shah is also involved in the glamour world.
Despite his retirement from acting Pankaj Dheer did not completely abandon the field. In 2010, he started the Abhinay Acting Academy to provide guidance and training to new actors. This academy was inaugurated by his close friend, Akshay Kumar with whom he had worked in several films. Students at this academy are trained in acting, expression, dialogue delivery and screen presence. Pankaj Dheer believed that everyone has the potential to act, they just need the right guidance. In 2014, he made his directorial debut with My Father Godfather, starring his daughter-in-law, Kratika Sengar. This film marked his directorial debut and proved him not only good actor but also skilled director.
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