- By Tanya Garg
- Wed, 15 Oct 2025 01:35 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Pankaj Dheer Death News: Actor Pankaj Dheer passed away on September 15. He was best known for playing Karn in BR Chopra's Mahabharat. His last rites will take place in Vile Parle, Mumbai, on Wednesday. According to reports, the actor was battling cancer. However, he was very ill when it relapsed a few months ago. Additionally, he underwent extensive surgery as part of the treatment.
Pankaj Dheer's demise has been confirmed by CINTAA (Cine & TV Artistes’ Association) in an official statement on Tuesday. "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," read the statement.
Who Was Pankaj Dheer?
Pankaj Dheer made his debut with the 1981 movie, Poonam, which was a huge failure. He starred in other forgettable films throughout the ensuing years, such as Randam Varavu, Meraa Suhaag, Sookha, and Jeevan Ek Sanghursh. However, Pankaj Dheer gained recognition for his portrayal of Karna in B.R. Chopra's television adaptation of the epic Mahabharat in 1988. He became the public's favourite because of his demeanour, performance, and body language.
Pankaj Dheer's performance became so famous that textbooks utilised pictures of him in that capacity as references, and statues of Karna based on his portrayal were worshipped in a few temples.
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Pankaj Dheer has acted in TV series like Chandrakanta and Sasural Simar Ka, as well as movies like Sanam Bewafa and Baadshah. He established the Academy of Abhinay Acting. He is survived by his wife, Anita Dheer and their son Nikitin Dheer.