MUMBAI, Oct 15 — Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for portraying the noble warrior Karna in BR Chopra’s television classic Mahabharat, passed away on Tuesday after battling cancer. He was 65.
The news of his demise was confirmed by actor and CINTAA member Amit Behl, who said Dheer had been fighting the illness for several months. “He underwent a major surgery, but the cancer relapsed a few months ago. His health deteriorated rapidly after that,” Behl told India Today.
The Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) issued an official statement mourning his death: “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.”
A familiar face in Indian cinema and television, Dheer appeared in several hit films such as Sanam Bewafa and Baadshah, and popular TV shows like Chandrakanta and Sasural Simar Ka. He also ventured into direction with the film My Father Godfather and founded the Abhinay Acting Academy, where he mentored aspiring actors.
In a past interview with India Forums, Dheer reflected on the enduring legacy of his role as Karna, recalling the deep emotional bond fans shared with the character. “People have loved me and adored me over the years. Even in school history books, if there’s a reference to Karna, they use my picture. As long as those books are printed, I’ll always be their Karna,” he had said.
Dheer also spoke about the reverence his portrayal inspired among devotees. “I have two temples where Puja is performed every day — one in Karnal and another in Bastar. There’s an eight-foot statue of mine there, and people worship it as Karna Mandir,” he had mentioned, adding that such devotion was a testament to how deeply audiences accepted him in the role.
Known for his humility and warmth, Dheer was admired by colleagues and fans alike for his powerful performances and disciplined craft.
He is survived by his wife Anita Dheer and son Nikitin Dheer, who is also an actor.
