Pankaj Dheer, one of India’s most respected television actors, passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 68. He was best known for playing Karna in the famous TV show Mahabharat, and his performance made him a household name across the country. His death has left fans, friends, and the entertainment industry deeply saddened.
A Journey That Started in Punjab
Born on November 9, 1956, in Punjab, Pankaj Dheer grew up with a love for stories and drama. He began acting in the late 1970s and slowly built a career through hard work and dedication. His deep voice and serious expressions made him perfect for strong, emotional roles. But it was in 1988, when he played Karna in Mahabharat, that he truly became famous.
Karna was a brave and loyal warrior in the ancient Indian epic. Pankaj Dheer played him with such honesty and emotion that people still remember his performance today. He showed Karna’s pain, courage, and kindness in a way that touched millions of viewers. For many children and young people, watching Mahabharat was their first experience with Indian mythology, and Pankaj Dheer helped make those stories come alive.
More Than Just Mahabharat
After Mahabharat, Pankaj Dheer acted in many other television shows. He appeared in Chandrakanta, Yug, The Great Maratha, and Badho Bahu. In each show, he played characters that were wise, strong, and full of emotion. He became known for roles that taught lessons about bravery, honesty, and leadership.
He also worked in Bollywood movies. Some of his well-known films include Sadak, Soldier, Baadshah, and Taarzan: The Wonder Car. Even though he didn’t always play the lead role, his presence on screen was powerful. Directors trusted him to bring depth and seriousness to their stories, and he never disappointed.
A Family of Artists
Pankaj Dheer was married to Anita Dheer, a talented costume designer in the film industry. She worked on movies like Boxer, Ikke Pe Ikka, and Victoria No. 203. They got married in 1979 and were together for over four decades. Their relationship was full of love, respect, and creativity.
Their son, Nikitin Dheer, followed in his father’s footsteps and became an actor. Nikitin is known for playing tough characters in movies like Chennai Express, Shershaah, and Mission Raniganj. Pankaj Dheer’s daughter-in-law, Kratika Sengar, is also a popular television actress. Together, the Dheer family has made a strong mark in Indian entertainment.
His Health and Final Days
In recent years, Pankaj Dheer had been battling cancer. He went through surgery and treatment, but the illness returned. He spent time in and out of hospitals, fighting bravely. His close friend, producer Ashoke Pandit, shared the sad news of his passing with the public.
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His funeral was held at Pawan Hans crematorium in Vile Parle (West), Mumbai. Many actors, directors, and fans came to pay their respects. The atmosphere was filled with love and sorrow, as people remembered the man who had given so much to Indian television.
Why Pankaj Dheer Mattered
Pankaj Dheer wasn’t just an actor—he was a storyteller. Through his roles, he helped people understand Indian history, mythology, and values. His portrayal of Karna taught viewers about loyalty, sacrifice, and the pain of being misunderstood. He made ancient stories feel real and meaningful.
For young viewers, especially those watching Mahabharat for the first time, Pankaj Dheer was a guide. He showed them that heroes aren’t perfect, but they try to do what’s right. His acting helped children learn about emotions, choices, and the importance of standing up for what you believe in.
A Final Goodbye
Just before his death, Pankaj Dheer posted a photo with his wife Anita on social media. The picture showed them smiling and happy. After he passed away, the photo was shared widely online. It reminded people of the love and warmth he had in his personal life. Fans wrote messages saying how much they admired him—not just as an actor, but as a kind and gentle human being.
Quick Facts About Pankaj Dheer
- Full name: Pankaj Dheer
- Born: November 9, 1956
- Died: October 15, 2025
- Famous role: Karna in Mahabharat
- Wife: Anita Dheer
- Son: Nikitin Dheer
- Daughter-in-law: Kratika Sengar
- Cause of death: Cancer
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who was Pankaj Dheer?
He was a famous Indian actor known for playing Karna in Mahabharat.
Q2: What made him special?
His acting was full of emotion and truth. He helped people understand Indian stories and values.
Q3: Did he act in movies too?
Yes, he acted in many Bollywood films like Sadak, Soldier, and Baadshah.
Q4: Who is in his family?
His wife is Anita Dheer, his son is Nikitin Dheer, and his daughter-in-law is Kratika Sengar.
Q5: How did he die?
He died from cancer after being sick for a long time.
Remembering a Legend
Pankaj Dheer’s life was full of talent, love, and dedication. He gave everything to his work and helped shape Indian television. His role as Karna will always be remembered as one of the greatest performances in Indian history. Even though he is no longer with us, his stories, his lessons, and his kindness will live on.
He showed us that acting is not just about saying lines—it’s about touching hearts. And that’s exactly what Pankaj Dheer did, every time he stepped in front of the camera.
A Spiritual Reflection: Lessons from Life and Teachings of Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj
The passing of Pankaj Dheer reminds us that life is precious and temporary. Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj often teaches that every human life is an opportunity to seek true devotion and understand God through knowledge based on the holy scriptures. He says that while fame and success are part of the world, they fade with time, but spiritual knowledge and devotion bring everlasting peace.
Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj guides people to live with kindness, humility, and truth — the same values that Pankaj Dheer often showed in his roles and life. By following the true path of worship explained in the scriptures, we can find the real purpose of life and overcome sorrow.
To learn more about his teachings, visit https://www.jagatgururampalji.org or watch discourses on his official YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@Satlokashram.
