Pankaj Dheer lost fight with Cancer at age of 68

Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for his powerful portrayal of Karna in B. R. Chopra’s timeless epic Mahabharat, passed away on October 15, 2025, after battling cancer. He was 68. His demise marks the end of an era for Indian television, as he was one of the most respected and admired actors of the 80s and 90s, known for bringing depth and dignity to every role he played. Dheer is survived by his son, Nikitin Dheer, who has followed in his father’s footsteps as an actor in the Indian film industry.

Pankaj Dheer’s passing has left the entertainment industry mourning the loss of a performer who, over decades, created an unforgettable legacy through his versatility and commanding screen presence. His work transcended generations from mythological classics to courtroom dramas, horror anthologies, and emotional narratives that shaped Indian television’s golden years.

Born in the mid-1950s, Dheer’s career spanned several decades, but it was his portrayal of Karna in the 1988 television series Mahabharat that turned him into a household name. The series, directed by B. R. Chopra and written by Pandit Rahi Masoom Raza, remains one of the most iconic productions in Indian television history. Dheer’s performance as Karna was hailed for its emotional depth, grace, and quiet intensity. His dignified depiction of the tragic warrior earned him immense respect from viewers, who saw in him not just an actor but the embodiment of Karna himself a misunderstood hero known for loyalty, sacrifice, and inner conflict.

The impact of Dheer’s portrayal went far beyond the television screen. His pictures as Karna became reference material for textbooks, illustrating the mythological character for students across India. In places like Karnal and Bastar, statues modeled after his likeness as Karna are still worshipped, a rare honor that only a handful of television actors have ever received. It reflected how deeply his performance had touched the hearts of people, blurring the line between art and devotion.

Following the success of Mahabharat, Dheer continued to appear in numerous television and film projects, exploring different genres with equal skill. In 1993, he played the lead role in the debut episode of Zee Horror Show, titled Dastak, alongside Archana Puran Singh. The anthology series, produced by Ramsay Brothers, went on to become one of the most popular horror shows on Indian television, and Dheer’s performance in its very first episode set the tone for the kind of storytelling that would captivate audiences for years.

His commanding voice, expressive eyes, and natural authority made him a perfect fit for roles that demanded moral strength or emotional turmoil. Whether he was playing a mythological hero or a man facing complex human dilemmas, Dheer brought a rare sincerity to his performances.

He later appeared as a defence lawyer in the courtroom drama Kanoon, a television series centered around legal battles and moral conflicts. His portrayal once again won praise for its subtle power and conviction, cementing his reputation as an actor who could dominate any frame without overstatement.

Beyond his on-screen accomplishments, Pankaj Dheer’s contribution to the Indian entertainment industry extended into the lives of those he inspired. Many young actors, including his son Nikitin Dheer, looked up to him not just for his body of work but for his discipline, humility, and passion for acting. Nikitin, known for his roles in films like Chennai Express and Shershaah, often spoke about his father’s influence, describing him as both a mentor and a moral compass.

Even in his later years, Dheer remained deeply respected by peers and fans alike. He represented a generation of actors who laid the foundation of Indian television when it was still finding its identity. For audiences who grew up watching Mahabharat, he wasn’t just an actor he was a symbol of sincerity, devotion, and honor, much like the character he portrayed.

His death from cancer comes as a painful loss to those who admired his work, both on and off the screen. As news of his passing spread, tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry, with fans and colleagues remembering him as a performer of unmatched poise and dedication.

Pankaj Dheer’s legacy is one that will endure beyond his filmography. He will forever be remembered as the man who brought Karna to life a character of immense strength, compassion, and moral complexity. His ability to breathe humanity into mythological roles redefined how Indian audiences viewed television heroes. Generations to come will continue to see his face when they think of Karna, a testament to the lasting impact of his artistry.

As the curtains fall on a remarkable life, Pankaj Dheer leaves behind not just a body of work but a sense of reverence that few actors ever achieve. His journey reminds the world that great performances are not bound by time they live on in memory, in culture, and in the hearts of those who were moved by them. For millions, Pankaj Dheer will always remain the noble warrior a man whose spirit, like Karna’s, will never fade from history.