Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, who etched his name in Indian television history as Karna in B.R. Chopra’s epic series ‘Mahabharat’, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 68 after a long battle with cancer. His demise leaves a void in the entertainment industry, but his legacy continues to live on through his unforgettable performances and the characters he brought to life.
Early Life and Humble Beginnings
Pankaj Dheer’s journey to stardom began far from the glitz and glamour of the entertainment world. Born into a modest family, he always dreamed of making it big on screen. His passion for acting led him to Mumbai, where he began his struggle to find a footing in the competitive world of cinema. Like many aspiring actors, Dheer faced his share of rejections and failures—but his resilience never wavered.
He made his film debut in 1981 with ‘Poonam’. Although the movie failed to make a mark at the box office, it gave him his first taste of the film industry. Over the next few years, he worked tirelessly in films such as ‘Sookha’, ‘Meraa Suhaag’, ‘Randam Varavu’, and ‘Jeevan Ek Sanghursh’. While these early projects did not bring fame, they helped him refine his craft and prepare for the role that would eventually define his career.
The Turning Point: Becoming ‘Karna’
The year 1988 changed everything for Pankaj Dheer. When B.R. Chopra’s ‘Mahabharat’ began its casting process, Dheer was chosen to play one of the most complex and noble characters in Indian mythology—Karna. With his tall frame, expressive eyes, and regal demeanor, Dheer embodied the tragic warrior with remarkable grace and strength.
Week after week, millions of households tuned in to watch his performance. His portrayal of Karna’s loyalty, pride, and heartbreak resonated deeply with viewers. Overnight, he became a household name, and “Karna” became synonymous with Pankaj Dheer.
“He became one of the most loved and respected characters in Indian television history. His calm yet commanding presence made the warrior prince unforgettable,” recalled a longtime fan.
Beyond Mahabharat: A Versatile Career
Following the massive success of ‘Mahabharat’, Pankaj Dheer’s career flourished. He became one of the most recognizable faces on television and transitioned effortlessly into films. His powerful screen presence and emotional depth made him a favorite among directors and audiences alike.
On television, he appeared in popular shows like ‘Chandrakanta’, where he portrayed the fierce King Shiv Dutt, along with memorable performances in ‘Zee Horror Show’, ‘Kanoon’, ‘Sasural Simar Ka’, ‘Devon Ke Dev… Mahadev’, and ‘Badho Bahu’.
In films, Dheer showcased his versatility with roles in ‘Soldier’, ‘Baadshah’, ‘Andaaz’, and ‘Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge’. Whether as a hero’s ally or an antagonist, he brought a commanding energy to every role he played.
Family and Legacy
Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife, Anita Dheer, and son Nikitin Dheer, who followed in his father’s footsteps to become a successful actor. Nikitin is known for his roles in ‘Chennai Express’, ‘Jodhaa Akbar’, and ‘Sooryavanshi’. His daughter-in-law, actress Kratika Sengar, has also made her mark in television with shows like ‘Ek Veer Stree Ki Kahaani – Jhansi Ki Rani’.
Just hours before his father’s passing, Nikitin shared a spiritual message on Instagram, reflecting his deep faith in Lord Shiva and the transient nature of life.
“Whatever comes, let it come. Whatever stays, let it stay. Whatever goes, let it go. As a Shiva Bhakt, say ‘Shivarpanam’ and move on! He’ll take care.” – Nikitin Dheer
Also Read: Actor Pankaj Dheer passes away, watch his last YouTube video
The Final Battle: His Fight Against Cancer
In recent years, Pankaj Dheer has been battling cancer with immense courage. Despite his health challenges, he continued to work and stay positive. According to close friend and actor Amit Behl, Dheer had shown remarkable recovery a few years ago and had even returned to acting.
“He was ailing about three years ago, but he had recovered. He was back to work. I spoke to him about four months ago, and he was sounding fine. But this is shocking, really shocking for all of us,” Behl told ANI.
Producer Ashoke Pandit also confirmed his passing, saying that Dheer had been in and out of hospitals in recent months as his condition worsened.
“He passed away due to cancer this morning. He had been in and out of the hospital in the past months,” said Ashoke Pandit.
A Legend Remembered
As the industry mourns his loss, Pankaj Dheer’s contributions to Indian television and cinema remain timeless. His portrayal of Karna continues to inspire generations, reminding audiences of an era when mythological storytelling ruled Indian television.
His life—marked by perseverance, talent, and quiet strength—serves as a story of inspiration. From his humble beginnings to his rise as one of television’s most iconic figures, Pankaj Dheer’s journey stands as a testament to dedication and artistry.
Even in his final moments, he embodied the calm dignity that once defined his most famous character, Karna—a warrior who fought bravely, loved deeply, and faced destiny with grace.
Also Read: 5 Best Films of Pankaj Dheer Career: From Salman Khan to Shah Rukh Khan
About the Author:
Rohit Kumar
I am a skilled content writer and SEO expert with a passion for crafting engaging and informative content. I currently work at Possible11, where I contribute to the company's blog and social media channels. I am also a contributing writer for several online publications. With over 500 articles under my belt, I have a deep understanding of how to create high-quality content that resonates with readers and drives traffic. I am also an expert in SEO, and I know how to optimize content for search engines to improve its visibility. I am a valuable asset to any team, and I am always ready to take on new challenges.
