Mahabharat’ star Pankaj Dheer passes away at 68 after long battle with cancer

Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, who won millions of hearts as Karna in B. R. Chopra’s epic series ‘Mahabharat’, has passed away on Wednesday after a long battle with cancer. He was 68. The cremation will be held later in the day.

Pankaj Dheer remembered for iconic role as Karna Pankaj Dheer became a household name with his powerful performance as Karna in ‘Mahabharat’ (1988). His calm yet commanding presence made the warrior prince one of the most loved and respected characters in Indian television history. His look, dialogue delivery, and strong screen presence turned him into a star overnight. Speaking about his demise, producer and friend Ashoke Pandit told PTI, “He passed away due to cancer this morning. He had been in and out of hospital in the past months.” The cremation was scheduled to take place later in the day.

He is survived by his wife Anita Dheer and son Nikitin Dheer, who has followed in his footsteps as an actor.

Actor’s early years marked by humble beginnings Pankaj Dheer began his acting journey with the 1981 film ‘Poonam’, which unfortunately did not do well at the box office. Despite the setback, he continued to pursue acting and appeared in several lesser-known films like ‘Sookha’, ‘Meraa Suhaag’, ‘Randam Varavu’, and ‘Jeevan Ek Sanghursh’.

While many of these early projects failed to leave a mark, they helped him polish his craft and prepare for the breakthrough role that would later define his career.

‘Mahabharat’ became the biggest turning point In 1988, Dheer’s life changed when he was cast as Suryaputra Karna in ‘Mahabharat’. His tall frame, expressive eyes, and intense performance made him the perfect fit for the role. His portrayal of Karna’s loyalty, pride, and pain touched audiences deeply.

The success of ‘Mahabharat’ made Pankaj Dheer a household name across India. His dialogues and expressions are still remembered fondly by fans who grew up watching the show.

Pankaj Dheer found fame beyond television After ‘Mahabharat’, Dheer became one of the most sought-after actors in both film and television. He starred in popular TV shows like ‘Chandrakanta’, where he played King Shiv Dutt, and appeared in ‘Zee Horror Show’ and ‘Kanoon’.

He also enjoyed success in films such as ‘Soldier’, ‘Andaaz’, ‘Baadshah’, and ‘Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge’. His performances in these movies proved his versatility and helped him earn respect as a dependable supporting actor. He went on to appear in well-loved shows like ‘Sanam Bewafa’, ‘Sadak’, ‘Chandrakanta’, ‘Sasural Simar Ka’, ‘Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat’, ‘Devon Ke Dev… Mahadev’ and ‘Badho Bahu’.

About Pankaj Dheer’s son Nikitin Dheer Pankaj Dheers son Nikitin is known for his roles in films like ‘Chennai Express’, ‘Jodhaa Akbar’, and ‘Sooryavanshi’. His daughter-in-law, actress Kratika Sengar, is also well known for her television work, especially ‘Ek Veer Stree Ki Kahaani-Jhansi Ki Rani’.

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