Veteran Actor Pankaj Dheer, Beloved for Iconic Role as Karna in ‘Mahabharat’, Passes Away at 68

Veteran Indian actor Pankaj Dheer, best remembered for his portrayal of Karna in B. R. Chopra’s television epic Mahabharat (1988), passed away on Wednesday after a prolonged battle with cancer. He was 68. The cremation is scheduled to take place later today.

The news was confirmed by actor Amit Behl to ANI. Behl, a close friend of over three decades, described Dheer’s passing as “shocking and really sad” and recalled speaking to him just four months ago. “He had been unwell about three years ago, but had recovered and returned to work. I last spoke to him a few months back, and he sounded fine,” Behl said.

---

A Career Defined by Karna

Pankaj Dheer’s portrayal of Karna made him a household name, with audiences drawn to his commanding presence, expressive eyes, and nuanced depiction of the warrior prince’s loyalty, pride, and inner conflict. His performance remains one of the most enduring in Indian television history, cementing Karna as a beloved cultural figure.

During the filming of Mahabharat, Dheer even sustained serious injuries, reflecting the physical dedication he brought to the role. His dialogue delivery and screen presence helped him achieve instant recognition and lasting fame.

---

Life Beyond the Epic

Following the success of Mahabharat, Dheer enjoyed a prolific career across television and film. He appeared in TV shows like Chandrakanta, Zee Horror Show, Kanoon, and later Sasural Simar Ka, Devon Ke Dev… Mahadev, and Badho Bahu. In films, he contributed memorable performances in Soldier, Andaaz, Baadshah, and Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge, showcasing his versatility as a dependable supporting actor.

Producer and friend Ashoke Pandit told PTI that Dheer had been in and out of hospitals in recent months due to cancer, and expressed condolences to his family.

---

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Pankaj Dheer began his career with the 1981 film Poonam, which failed at the box office. Despite early setbacks with films like Sookha, Meraa Suhaag, Randam Varavu, and Jeevan Ek Sanghursh, he honed his craft and eventually found his breakthrough in Mahabharat.

---

Family Legacy

Dheer is survived by his wife Anita Dheer and son Nikitin Dheer, who has followed in his father’s footsteps with roles in films including Chennai Express, Jodhaa Akbar, and Sooryavanshi. His daughter-in-law, Kratika Sengar, is a prominent television actress known for Ek Veer Stree Ki Kahaani-Jhansi Ki Rani.