Pankaj Dheer, veteran TV and film actor known chiefly for his memorable portrayal of the character Karna in BR Chopra’s epic serial Mahabharat, died on October 15, 2025. He was 65 years old. This was confirmed by his close friend and fellow actor Amit Behl, who is also a member of the Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA).
As per reports, Pankaj Dheer was fighting cancer for a while. Even when he first reacted to the treatment, the disease returned a few months ago, making him very sick. He had also had extensive surgery for his condition.
CINTAA released an official condolence stating the veteran actor’s demise:
With great sorrow and deep regret, we regret to inform you of the sad demise of our Trust’s former Chairman and CINTAA’s ex-Hon. General Secretary, Shri Pankaj Dheer ji, on 15th October 2025. Cremation today at 4:30 pm, beside Pawan Hans, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai.
Pankaj Dheer achieved stardom with his intimidating acting as Karna in the late 1980s’ Mahabharat, a performance that gained him universal popularity and appreciation. Since then, he appeared in numerous successful films like Sanam Bewafa, Baadshah, and television series like Chandrakanta, Sasural Simar Ka, and Har Yug Mein Aayega Ek Arjun.
In addition to television acting, Dheer also dabbled in direction and film-making. He directed the 2014 movie My Father Godfather and was the owner of the Abhinay Acting Academy, where he trained aspiring actors.
He leaves behind his wife, Anita Dheer, and son, actor Nikitin Dheer, famous for starring in Chennai Express and Shershaah. His death signifies an era coming to a close for Indian television and the silver screen.
#CINTAA & #CAWT mourn the loss of Shri Pankaj Dheer, former General Secretary of #CINTAA and former Chairman of #CAWT — a respected member of our fraternity whose invaluable contributions to Indian cinema and television will always be remembered.
Funeral today at 4:30 PM at… pic.twitter.com/kNTG4TTTVc
— CINTAA_Official (@CintaaOfficial) October 15, 2025