Mumbai: Veteran film and television actor Pankaj Dheer, best remembered for his iconic portrayal of Karn in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, passed away on October 15, 2025, after a prolonged battle with cancer. The actor was 65. The news of his demise was confirmed by his friend and colleague Amit Behl to India Today.

CINTAA confirms the actor’s demise

The Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) issued an official statement on Wednesday, expressing grief over the loss.
“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,” the statement read.

Dheer, who had been undergoing treatment for cancer, had shown improvement after surgery but the disease relapsed a few months ago. Sources close to the family revealed that the actor had been extremely unwell in recent weeks.

He is survived by his wife Anita Dheer and son Nikitin Dheer, who is also an actor.

Rise to fame through Mahabharat

Pankaj Dheer became a household name in the late 1980s through his portrayal of Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, one of Indian television’s most celebrated epics. His powerful performance earned him immense admiration, making him one of the most memorable characters in the series.

Such was the popularity of his role that his image was reportedly used as a reference for Karna in school textbooks. Statues of Karna based on Dheer’s likeness were even installed in Karnal and Bastar, where he was revered by many.

Notable work in films and television

Beyond Mahabharat, Dheer had an extensive career across film and television. He featured in several Hindi films such as Sanam Bewafa, Baadshah, Saugandh, and many others. On television, he appeared in popular shows including Chandrakanta, Sasural Simar Ka, and Kanoon, where he played a defence lawyer in the courtroom drama series.

In 1993, he also starred in the debut episode Dastak of the cult horror anthology Zee Horror Show, alongside Archana Puran Singh.

Contributions behind the camera

Apart from acting, Dheer also made his mark as a director and entrepreneur. He directed the film My Father Godfather and founded the Abhinay Acting Academy in 2010, with fellow Mahabharat actor Gufi Paintal serving as head of faculty.

He also co-founded Visage Studioz with his brother Satluj Dheer in Jogeshwari, Mumbai, which became a well-known shooting location for television and film productions.

A respected figure in the industry

Colleagues and fans have expressed deep sorrow at his passing, remembering him not only as a talented actor but also as a mentor and a kind human being. The film and television fraternity hailed Dheer as a professional who brought intensity and dignity to every role he portrayed.

The cremation is scheduled to take place at 4:30 pm on Wednesday at the cremation ground near Pawan Hans, Vile Parle (West).

Pankaj Dheer leaves behind a rich legacy in Indian television and cinema, and his contribution will continue to inspire generations of actors.