Veteran film and television actor Pankaj Dheer, celebrated for his unforgettable role as Karna in BR Chopra’s epic series Mahabharat, passed away on October 15. He was 65. The news of his demise was confirmed by actor and CINTAA member Amit Behl, who shared the information with India Today.

According to reports, Dheer had been undergoing treatment for cancer for some time. Though he initially showed signs of recovery, his condition worsened after the illness returned a few months ago. Sources close to the family revealed that he had also undergone major surgery earlier this year.

The Cine & TV Artistes’ Association (CINTAA) issued an official statement expressing deep sorrow at his passing:

“With profound grief, we announce the demise of our Trust’s former Chairman and CINTAA’s ex-Hon. General Secretary, Shri Pankaj Dheer ji, on October 15, 2025. The cremation will take place today at 4:30 pm near Pawan Hans, Vile Parle (W), Mumbai.”

Dheer’s career spanned over four decades across film and television. Apart from Mahabharat, he was known for memorable performances in films such as Sanam Bewafa and Baadshah, and popular TV shows like Chandrakanta and Sasural Simar Ka. He also ventured into direction with the film My Father Godfather and founded the Abhinay Acting Academy to train aspiring actors.

In earlier interviews, Dheer often reflected on how deeply his portrayal of Karna resonated with audiences across generations. He once shared that his image as Karna had become so iconic that “even school textbooks include my picture when they mention the character.”

Dheer also spoke about the temples dedicated to Karna where he is worshipped in that form. “There are two temples where puja happens every day — one in Karnal and another in Bastar. They have statues of me as Karna, and people genuinely offer prayers. It’s a love I can never forget,” he had said in an interview.

His portrayal left such an enduring impact that many fans continued to revere him as a living embodiment of the mythological hero.

Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife Anita Dheer and son Nikitin Dheer, who is also an actor.