Veteran Actor Pankaj Dheer (Mahabharat’s Karna) Passes Away After Long Cancer Battle

Oct 15, 2025

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In a sad turn of events, veteran television and film actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for his iconic portrayal of Karna in B.R. Chopra’s legendary Mahabharat, passed away on 15 October 2025. He was 68 years old. His demise was confirmed by sources including CINTAA (Cine & TV Artistes’ Association). The Indian Express+3India Today+3Moneycontrol+3

Dheer had been battling cancer for some time, and reports indicate that his illness had relapsed after prior treatment. India Today+4Onlymyhealth+4The Economic Times+4 He had also undergone a major surgery before his condition deteriorated further. Onlymyhealth+4Moneycontrol+4India Today+4 The official statement from CINTAA announced that his cremation would be held the same evening in Vile Parle (W), Mumbai at around 4:30 p.m., next to Pawan Hans. India Today+2The Indian Express+2

A Look Back at His Career & Legacy

Early Life & Rise to Fame

Pankaj Dheer was born on 9 November 1956 and began his acting journey in the early 1980s. Wikipedia+2The Indian Express+2 His breakthrough came when he was cast as Karna in B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat in 1988 — a role that made him a household name across India. India Today+4Wikipedia+4The Indian Express+4

Interestingly, he was originally considered for the role of Arjuna but reportedly declined because he was asked to shave off his moustache, which he felt would not suit certain portrayals, including Brihannala (the eunuch form of Arjuna). This decision led to a fallout with the producers before being brought back, this time for the now-iconic role of Karna. The Financial Express+3The Indian Express+3Free Press Journal+3

Beyond Mahabharat, Dheer had a versatile acting portfolio, appearing in popular serials like Chandrakanta, The Great Maratha, Yug, Badho Bahu, Sasural Simar Ka, and more. India Today+3Wikipedia+3The Financial Express+3 He also did work in Hindi films (though often in supporting roles), including Sadak, Baadshah, Soldier, Sanam Bewafa, among others. mint+3Moneycontrol+3The Financial Express+3

Dheer also founded the Abhinay Acting Academy and remained active in mentoring younger talent. India Today+1

Impact & Remembrance

Why He Was Loved

His portrayal of Karna resonated deeply because he captured the emotional complexity, nobility, and tragedy of the character, making him unforgettable to generations of viewers. The Financial Express+3www.ndtv.com+3The Indian Express+3
In many textbooks and cultural references, his face as Karna has been used as the visual depiction of that character. mint+3The Indian Express+3Wikipedia+3
There are statues worshipping his version of Karna in certain temples, a testament to how powerful and memorable his portrayal became. The Indian Express+2Moneycontrol+2

Reactions & Tributes

News of his passing triggered tributes across social media, film fraternity, and fans. Co-actors, industry peers, and admirers remembered him for his dignified presence, powerful acting, and warmth off-screen. Moneycontrol+4The Times of India+4The Times of India+4

His son, Nikitin Dheer, also an actor, expressed sorrow over his father’s death. The Indian Express+1

Timeline & Key Facts

Date	Event
9 Nov 1956	Pankaj Dheer born Wikipedia+1
1988	Cast as Karna in Mahabharat Moneycontrol+3Wikipedia+3www.ndtv.com+3
15 Oct 2025	Passed away after battling cancer The Indian Express+2India Today+2
Cremation	Held evening of 15 Oct in Mumbai

Final Thoughts

The passing of Pankaj Dheer marks the end of an era in Indian television. As Karna, he became more than just an actor — he became a symbol of tragedy, strength, and moral complexity that resonated across generations. His journey from refusing to shave his moustache to becoming Karna, and his dedication to craft, will continue to inspire.

May he rest in peace. Om Shanti.

About the author

I’m Himanshu Dhar, a dedicated MIS trainer proudly associated with I Turn Institute. My journey in the realm of data management and automation spans over 14 enriching years. My passion for this field extends to freelancing projects, where I bring real-world practicality into my teaching. My impact in education is marked by the success of over 25,000 students I’ve had the privilege of mentoring, hailing from diverse backgrounds. Beyond the classroom, I’ve had the honor of conducting corporate training sessions and seminars, catering to the unique needs of businesses. Let’s unlock your potential together in the realm of data analysis and automation.