Veteran Actor Pankaj Dheer Mahabharat Karna, Passes Away at 68

Bollywood mourns the loss of veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, best known for his unforgettable portrayal of Karna in the epic series Mahabharat, who passed away at the age of 68.

The Indian entertainment industry is in saddened following the death of veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, who died on October 15 at the age of 68. Famous to millions for his iconic portrayal of Karna in the epic Mahabharat, Dheer left a lasting legacy on Indian cinema and television.

His cremation was held at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle, Mumbai, on Wednesday. Bollywood celebrities were in attendance to bid their last farewells. Those in attendance were Salman Khan, Sidharth Malhotra, Arbaaz Khan. They all offered their last respects to a man revered for his talent and humility.

An emotionally intense moment from the funeral made its way around social media. A video captured Pankaj’s son, actor Nikitin Dheer, consoling his mother, Anita Dheer, as they mourned their irreparable loss. The tear-jerking images captured the unrestrained grief of a family that has entertained Indian audiences.

Nikitin Dheer, who followed in his father’s footsteps, has built an impressive career in Bollywood. He has appeared in films such as Salman Khan’s Ready and Dabangg 2, Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai’s Jodhaa Akbar, Akshay Kumar’s Sooryavanshi, and Sidharth Malhotra’s Shershaah. Standing by his mother’s side during the final rites, Nikitin’s quiet strength reflected his father’s legacy and their bond.

A Storied Career Across Film – Television

Pankaj Dheer’s career in entertainment started in the early 1980s. It was playing the character of Karna in B.R. Chopra’s Mahabharat that made him a household name. His robust delivery, authoritative screen presence, and subtle acting to bring out the tragic warrior made him television’s most popular character. Even years later, his Karna is one of the best performances in Indian television history.

Apart from Mahabharat, it was quite easy for Dheer to adjust to Bollywood. He was seen in many successful Bollywood films from various genres. Some of his hits include prominent roles in Shah Rukh Khan’s Baadshah, Bobby Deol’s Soldier, Salman Khan’s Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge and Sanam Bewafa, Akshay Kumar’s Andaaz, and Ajay Devgn’s Taarzan The Wonder Car.

Being a talented actor, he performed anything from virtuous heroes to mighty villains, frequently dominating the screen with his baritone voice and authoritative presence.

The Face of Indian Television

Apart from movies, Pankaj Dheer was a household name in India due to his immense contribution towards television. He made appearances in the popular TV series like Chandrakanta, Sasural Simar Ka, and Badho Bahu. He most recently featured in the science fiction romantic series Dhruv Tara – Samay Sadi Se Pare, proving that even after working for decades in the industry, he still had a burning desire for acting.

Dheer’s contribution to the television screen was not limited to acting. He influenced a whole generation of artists and writers. His commitment to all his roles, irrespective of screen minutes, showed how much respect he had for his viewers.

A Legacy That Continues

Aneeta Dheer’s husband, son Nikitin Dheer, daughter-in-law Kratika Sengar, and three-year-old granddaughter Devika survive Pankaj Dheer.

With a career that lasted more than four decades, Pankaj Dheer’s presence contributed to the richness of both films and television. His Karna will always be remembered in the hearts of millions.