‘Mahabharat’ Legend Pankaj Dheer Passes Away at 68 After Long Illness — Iconic Karna Leaves Behind a Legacy of Power & Grace
Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for portraying Karna in B.R. Chopra’s ‘Mahabharat’, has passed away at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness. The film and television fraternity mourns the loss of one of India’s most iconic screen heroes
The Indian entertainment industry is mourning the loss of veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, who passed away at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness. The beloved star, best remembered for his powerful portrayal of Karna in the legendary 1988 television epic ‘Mahabharat’, breathed his last in Mumbai surrounded by family.
According to family sources, Dheer had been battling health complications for several months. Despite receiving advanced medical treatment, his condition reportedly worsened over the past few weeks. His demise marks the end of an era in Indian television history, where his commanding screen presence and timeless performances earned him a place among the industry’s most respected actors.
Born in 1957, Pankaj Dheer began his acting journey in the early 1980s and quickly rose to fame through a series of strong, impactful roles in both television and cinema. However, it was his portrayal of Karna in B.R. Chopra’s ‘Mahabharat’ (1988) that immortalized him in the hearts of millions of viewers. His intense expressions, heroic stance, and emotionally charged dialogues made him one of the show’s most unforgettable characters.
Over his 40-year career, Dheer worked in over 100 films and TV serials, including ‘Baahuraniyan,’ ‘Saugandh,’ ‘Sadak,’ ‘Tahalka,’ and ‘Soldier.’ He also appeared in popular TV shows like ‘Chandrakanta,’ ‘Badho Bahu,’ and ‘Chandrakanta Santati.’
As news of his death broke, tributes flooded social media. Celebrities, co-stars, and fans expressed their grief, remembering him as both a disciplinarian and a gentleman who deeply respected his craft.
Actor Arjun (Firoz Khan), who played Arjuna opposite Dheer’s Karna in Mahabharat, shared an emotional post
“We fought great wars on screen, but off-screen, he was my brother. Rest in peace, my dearest Karna.”
Director Ravi Chopra’s family also paid homage, calling Dheer “the soul of Mahabharat’s moral strength.”
Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife Deepika Dheer and his son Nikitin Dheer, who has followed in his father’s footsteps as an actor. Nikitin, known for roles in films like ‘Chennai Express’ and ‘Shershaah,’ shared a heartfelt note, calling his father “a hero not just on screen, but in life.”
Beyond his acting career, Dheer was also known for mentoring young talent. He founded the Abbhinnay Acting Academy in Mumbai, training hundreds of aspiring actors. His contribution to shaping India’s next generation of performers is often hailed as one of his greatest achievements.
Fans across India remember him not just as Karna the warrior, but as a symbol of dignity, resilience, and grace. His portrayal continues to inspire reruns, digital revivals, and millions of nostalgic fans who grew up watching Doordarshan’s golden age.
As the entertainment world bids farewell to one of its most respected veterans, tributes continue to pour in from every corner of the country. The cremation is expected to take place today in Mumbai, attended by close friends, family, and colleagues from the television and film fraternity.
Pankaj Dheer’s passing marks the end of a monumental chapter in Indian entertainment. His legacy — that of a warrior, teacher, and artist — will live on forever through his timeless performances and the generations he inspired.
