Pankaj Dheer, Beloved Karna of Mahabharat, Dies at 68 After Cancer Battle
Mumbai, October 15 — Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, revered for his unforgettable portrayal of Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, passed away today at the age of 68 after a prolonged battle with cancer.
Despite undergoing major surgery, the disease relapsed a few months ago, leading to a rapid decline in his health. His close friend and CINTAA member Amit Behl confirmed the news, and the association released an official statement mourning the loss of its former Chairman and General Secretary.
Dheer’s cremation was held at 4:30 pm at Pawan Hans, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai.
With a career spanning decades, Dheer left his mark on both television and cinema. He starred in films like Sanam Bewafa and Baadshah, and appeared in popular TV shows such as Chandrakanta and Sasural Simar Ka. He also directed My Father Godfather and founded the Abhinay Acting Academy.
His portrayal of Karna became a cultural phenomenon. In interviews, Dheer shared how people built temples in his honour and worshipped him as Karna.
Statues of him stand in Karnal and Bastar, where daily pujas are held. “Even history books carry my image when they mention Karna,” he once said. “As long as those books exist, I will remain their Karna.”
He is survived by his wife Anita Dheer and son Nikitin Dheer, also an actor. India remembers Pankaj Dheer not just as Karna, but as a symbol of dedication, artistry, and timeless impact.
