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Veteran Actor Pankaj Dheer Dies at 68, Here Are the Details

Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, widely known as Karna in the serial 'Mahabharat', died at the age of 68 after battling cancer.

Veteran Actor Pankaj Dheer Dies at 68, Here Are the Details
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Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, widely known as Karna in the serial 'Mahabharat', died at the age of 68 after battling cancer.... Selengkapnya
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Liputan6.com, Jakarta Indian veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, who rose to fame with his role as Karna in B.R. Chopra's epic television series 'Mahabharat,' passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025.

He passed away at the age of 68 after battling cancer, as reported by Indian Times.

Amit Behl, a close friend and colleague of Pankaj Dheer from CINTAA (Cine & TV Artistes' Association), confirmed the sad news to India Today.

CINTAA has also released an official statement confirming the sad news.

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His Long Battle with Cancer

Pankaj Dheer passed away on October 15, 2025, after a long battle with cancer.

Reliable sources report that the Punjab-born actor had been battling the deadly disease for some time.

Despite undergoing major surgery, his illness recurred a few months before his death.

The sad news was first confirmed by Amit Behl, who was part of Pankaj Dheer's inner circle and a member of CINTAA.

His passing at the age of 68 is a reminder of the fragility of life.

Pankaj Dheer's cremation is scheduled for the same day, October 15, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. local time.

The final rites will be held near Pawan Hans, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai, in the presence of family and close friends.

His son, Nikitin Dheer, shared a touching message on Instagram, reflecting his resilience and acceptance in the face of adversity.

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Pankaj Dheer's Brilliant Acting Career

Pankaj Dheer, born on November 9, 1956, in Punjab, India, is an actor, director, and writer who graduated from MMK College, Mumbai.

He is the son of renowned filmmaker C.L. Dheer and is married to Anita Dheer.

Their family is also well-known in the entertainment industry, with son Nikitin Dheer and daughter-in-law Kratika Sengar also acting.

Although initially aspiring to be a director, Pankaj Dheer began his acting career in the early 1980s. His film debut was 'Poonam' in 1981, followed by 'Sookha' in 1983.

However, his most iconic role, and his most widely recognized, was as Karna in the epic television series 'Mahabharat', which aired in 1988.

The role of Karna was so ingrained in him that his image was used in textbooks as a reference.

In fact, his statues are worshipped as Karna in temples in Karnal and Bastar, demonstrating his immense influence. H

e is also known for his portrayal of King Shivdutt in the fantasy drama 'Chandrakanta'.

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Big Screen and National Television Contribution

Throughout his career, Pankaj Dheer has starred in numerous popular television series and films.

  • Famous TV serials starring Pankaj Dheer include: 'The Great Maratha', 'Yug', 'Kanoon', 'Badho Bahu', 'Sasural Simar Ka', 'Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat', 'Devon Ke Dev...Mahadev', 'Zee Horror Show' (debut episode 'Dastak'), 'Dhruv Tara – Samay Sadi Se Pare', and 'Ajooni'.
  • Hindi films he has acted in include: 'Sadak', 'Soldier', 'Baadshah', 'Taarzan: The Wonder Car', 'Sanam Bewafa', 'Tumko Na Bhool Paayenge', 'Aashiq Awara', 'Andaz', 'Saugandh', 'Banjaran', 'Majboor Ladki', 'Pardesi', 'Sone Ki Lanka', 'Heer Ranjha', 'Mr. Bond', 'Bekhabar', 'Mudda 370 J & K', 'Gippi', and 'Paandav'.
  • He has also appeared in Punjabi films such as 'Kaptaan' and 'Chooriyan', showcasing his wide acting range across various regional film industries.