Mahabharat’s ‘Karna’ Pankaj Dheer Passes Away – Shocking and heartbreaking news has emerged from the TV industry. Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, who played the iconic role of the generous Karna in BR Chopra’s epic “Mahabharata,” is no longer with us. He breathed his last on October 15, 2025. His close friend and actor Amit Bahl confirmed the news to India Today.
Death after a prolonged illness: What was the cause?
According to sources, Pankaj Dheer had been battling cancer for some time. Although he had initially managed to overcome the battle, the cancer returned in the last few months. It is reported that his condition was critical and he underwent major surgery, but unfortunately, he could not be saved. The news of his passing has sent shockwaves through the TV and film industries.
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When and where will the funeral take place?
The Cine and TV Artistes Association (CINTAA) has also issued a statement expressing its condolences on this tragic news. CINTAA announced that Pankaj Dheer’s last rites will be performed at 4:30 pm today at the Pawan Hans Crematorium in Vile Parle, Mumbai. Pankaj Dheer was also the former General Secretary of CINTAA.
How did he get the role of Karna? The story of a moustache!
Pankaj Dheer played many memorable roles in his career, but the recognition he gained as Karna in the 1988 film “Mahabharata” remains unmatched even today. But did you know that he was originally supposed to play Arjun, not Karna? In an interview, Pankaj Dheer revealed that he initially auditioned for the role of Arjun and had even signed a contract. However, the role went to Feroz Khan (who later played Arjun).
The real story was this: The makers wanted him to shave off his moustache for the role of Arjun (because he also had to play Brihannala), but Pankaj Dheer flatly refused. BR Chopra was so enraged by his “mustache obsession” that he angrily threw him out of the studio and tore up his contract.
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Pankaj Dheer was without work for nearly six months. But as they say, “whatever happens, happens for the good.” After some time, BR Chopra cast him in the role of Karna in the Mahabharata. Pankaj Dheer played the role with such seriousness that he is still remembered as Karna.
Left behind his wife and son from “Chennai Express”!
Pankaj Dheer has done impressive work in several mythological shows like Chandrakanta and The Great Maratha, as well as in films. His acting in films like Soldier, Badshah, and Sadak was highly praised.
On his personal life, he leaves behind his wife, Anita Dheer, and son, Nikitin Dheer. Nikitin Dheer is also a well-known actor, known to fans for his roles as Thangabali in “Chennai Express” and Ravana in “Srimad Ramayan.” Nikitin’s wife, Kritika Sengar, is also a well-known actress in the TV industry.
Pankaj Dheer’s fans and the entire industry are paying tribute to him with tearful eyes. His character will forever remain immortal in the history of Indian television.